Google+ Running in Cork, Ireland: Over 1000 runners turn out for the Sonia 5k in Dublin...Sat 13th June 2015

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Over 1000 runners turn out for the Sonia 5k in Dublin...Sat 13th June 2015

A special race called the Sonia 5K was held last Saturday the 13th of June in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Sonia O’Sullivan’s historic victory in the 5,000 metres at the IAAF World Championships in Gothenburg in 1995.



A total of 1070 runners took part with a few traveling from Cork to take part in the event. All finishers were given a replica of the World Championship Gold medal that Sonia won.

11 year old Maggie Sillett of Ballymore Cobh AC finished 12th out of 682 female athletes with a time of 21:32. Sonia finished 2nd in 19:27
The full results can be seen HERE

Short race video below...

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

wow! what a turn out. sonia what a legend! fair play to young maggie, but should a junior really be aloud to run in an adult race?????

Anonymous said...

This was never just an adults race! Sonia herself clearly said in a pre race interview that this race was open to all ages and abilities and she hope to see some Juveniles take part. Judging by Maggies result she is more than capable. Well done Maggie!

John Desmond said...

This is the recommendation from Athletics Ireland...

The recommended age groups for juveniles are: Up to U11 – 1 mile: 12 – 13 2k: 14-15 3k: 16 –18 5k.

Note the word 'recommended'. A lot obviously depends on the individual in question and it's up to the parents and organisers.

S Meyler said...

In reply to the anonymous poster wondering if a junior should be allowed take pat in an "adult race"?
1. Havinh viewed the race site, it was never mentioned as solely an adults only race.
2. Why on earth would you deny an enthusiastic child the once in a lifetime opportunity to run alongside a former world champion?
3. Maggie Sillett (and several other juveniles) proved they were more than capable of mixing it with their adult counterparts. I only wish I had had Maggie's ability and maturity to be capable of racing in this company when I was a mere 11 year old.

Anonymous said...

allowed to run?? Finishing 12th out of more than 600 speaks for itself, this is the kind of talent Ireland needs and having people like Sonia that young kids can aspire to is wonderful.