Unknown

28 November, 2009

A lovely sunny evening, the mood was good among 168 runners who decided to venture up those treacherous paths of Tibradden. Stories of past runners who had injured themselves on this run and tips on how to strap up your ankle were being passed around...If there is any run in which you can do damage to yourself this is the one.... its rough, shale and narrow paths make it a difficult and dangerous race. First Aid Officer Neil and his assistant Elva had their work cut out for them last night; lots of blood, cuts, gashes, and damaged ankles!



Standing on a big rock on the top of the first climb, I had a great view of the race forming below me. Gary Crossan and Craig Longmore were the first to come bombing up the mountain with a clear lead from the rest of the pack. Gary Crossan was the first male home with a time just under 44mins (wow!) he was closely pursued by Craig Longmore. In third place was Cormac Conway. Gerry Lawlor was first male 40 home followed by Jimmy Sinnott and third place went to Martin Francis.



Beth McCluskey was the first lady home who had the right idea by strapping up both her ankles ? not that I?m sure it made much difference! Second lady home was Orla McEvoy who apparently loves the terrain of races such as Tibradden, you might have seen her skipping down like a mountain goat! Zoe Melling was the third lady home (unscathed).



The race was wonderfully organised by Aisling Coppinger and her merry team ? Mick Kellett was a welcome face at the junior cut off point. I think regular runners like Mick and Brendan Doherty have the right idea by enjoying this race from the sideline and saving their ankles!



The closure of Doherty's pub was noted by many a runner, especially the runners who were refused ice in Buglers for their sprained ankles. Aoife Joyce had to hobble to the shop next door and buy a bag of frozen peas!



In summary a great race was had by all and the first aid team promises to have ICE and A&E trollies on Brendan Lawlor?s suggestion for next year!!