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Maurice Mullins Ultra: Battling the Elements, Bonding over Sausage Rolls

Sunday April 7 - Pól Ó Murchú

On Saturday March 23rd, the Wicklow Way bore witness to an epic battle of endurance and determination as runners tackled the formidable Maurice Mullins Ultra Race. Amidst challenging weather conditions and a gruelling course, this year's event was the toughest route to date. Despite facing near gale-force winds, rain, hail, and even snow, a record-breaking field of 275 runners gathered to take on the 51.5-kilometer course with 2,800m of elevation gain along the Wicklow Way, traversing the challenging peaks of Djouce and Maulin, not once but twice over the course of the day.

The race was not only a test of physical endurance but also a qualifier for the European Athletics Off Road Championships, set to take place in Annecy, France, later this year. While the Annecy event will feature 480 runners from 30 countries across three different races (Uphill 7.5km, Up & Down 16km, and Trail 58km), and includes two U20's races with junior runners competing in a 5.5km uphill race and the up and down 6km, the Maurice Mullins Ultra Race provided its own spectacle of athletic prowess and determination.

Among the top finishers were:

Top 5 Female Finishers:
Emma Stuart (Sligo) - 5:05:12
Sorcha Loughnane (Donore Harriers, Dublin) - 5:23:11
Laura O'Driscoll (North East Runners, Louth) - 5:36:07
Aoife Mundow (Drogheda & District AC, Louth) - 5:46:19
Ellen Vitting (Munster Trail Runners, Kerry) - 5:51:45

Top 5 Male Finishers:
Barry McEvoy (Laois) - 4:33:00
Edward O'Connor (Dublin) - 4:38:12
Enda Cloake (Slaney Olympic, Wexford) - 4:41:12
Shane Lynch (Cork Orienteers, Louth) - 4:48:40
Adam Cunningham (Mourne Runners, Down) - 4:50:21

These athletes showcased remarkable strength and resilience as they conquered the rugged terrain and inclement weather to secure their places on the podium.

However, the Maurice Mullins Ultra Race is more than just a competition—it is a testament to the camaraderie and spirit of the Irish mountain running community. Despite the challenging conditions, runners supported and encouraged each other throughout the race, forging bonds that transcended individual achievements.

The feedback from participants echoed this sentiment, with many expressing gratitude for the race organizers, volunteers, and fellow runners. Despite the hardships endured, there was a shared sense of accomplishment and appreciation for the experience.

Special mention was made of the savoury treats provided at the end of the race, particularly the sausage rolls, which provided much-needed sustenance and comfort to weary runners. After battling the wind and rain, the terrain, and the inner voices telling us to give up, these simple pleasures served as a reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that define the Maurice Mullins Ultra Race.

As the dust settled and the runners crossed the finish line, exhausted but triumphant, there was a palpable sense of pride and satisfaction in having conquered nature's wrath and personal limits. The memories forged on the trails of Wicklow will linger long after the race, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the running community and the enduring appeal of the Maurice Mullins Ultra Race.
And, if the MMU has given you a taste for Ultra races and the pain/pleasure that goes with them, why not sign up for one of the forthcoming ultras:

20th April: Knockmealdown Ultra 66k, Co. Waterford
20th April: NIMRA Granite Peaks Ultra 50k, Co. Down
17th May: Beara Way Ultra 161k, Co. Cork

Photo Credit: Stéphane Claude
Edited by: Dáithí de Mórdha