Preview of the Cork BHAA 'UCC' 10 km road race - Sun 5th of April (11am)
After a lull of about one month, the Cork Business Houses Athletic Association races are starting again in earnest. The next race in their busy calendar is the UCC 10 km race next Sunday. This race takes in the Lee Road and Straight Road and must be one of the oldest races on the local scene.

Registration...
This year will be the same as last year. So to register, you need to go to the old red brick pavillion in the Mardkye sports grounds. Please note that it is very expensive to park inside the Sports grounds. Note that the refreshments and prizegiving is in a seperate building about 1 km away. It might be an idea to park somewhere halfway between the two.

For a better idea of where the old pavillion is, use this link...http://pininthemap.com/d33af461acd75dd12

Course...
After you register, just follow the other runners accross the 'Shaky Bridge' to get to the start.
The first 200 metres or so is all downhill but soon you are on to the Lee road and it's pretty flat. Around the 2.5 mile mark, there is a good uphill section followed by a steep downhill bit around 3 miles. After that, it's more or less dead flat. You re-join the main road, go past The Anglers Rest pub and then join the Carrigrohane straight.
This last section is about 2 miles long and dead straight. Some people hate it as you can see the County Hall way off in the distance and it feels like it isn't getting any closer. To be honest, I can't see what difference it makes...you are at the 4 mile mark in a 10 km race and that's it.
(By the way, if you are thinking about doing the Marathon in June, the 4 mile mark here is about the 22 mile mark in the Marathon. You will have to run from here, in the Straight Road, Western Road and finish in Patrick's Street. Anyway...back to the UUC race...)
The finish of the 10 km race is just beyond the County Hall. Keep it in mind as you run in the Straight Road....once you pass that building, you're almost there. The finish is just outside the Kingsley Hotel.

Water...
Please note that there are no water stations out along the course. Once you finish, they will have bottled water available. They are asking runners to take only one bottle each so that there is some water left over for the slower runners.

Apres Race...
After the race, the refreshments and the prizegiving will be in the restaurant in the Lee Maltings. See map above. To see exactly where the Lee Maltings is, click on this link...http://pininthemap.com/67404b694e24f13bb

Now for the interesting part!! This year again, there will be a draw for a Dell mini laptop in the Maltings Restaurant. There will be no tickets given out at the finish. They will just pick out a finisher at random regardless of whether they are in the hall or not. For all of the other spot prizes, the person must be in the hall.

If you would like to have a closer look at the course, I have put it up on the MapMyRun website. Click on the link below...http://www.mapmyrun.com/run/ireland/cork/527572334

Cork Runners on Twitter

Tweet, tweet...twitter, twitter...tweet, tweet...

No doubt a lot of people have heard of the Internet service 'Twitter' but may not be aware of what it is.

A quick explanation...Twitter is a 'micro-blogging' service. People post very short posts which can be 140 characters maximum in lenght and you can follow what other people are up to. A more detailed explanation can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twitter

I first heard of Twitter over a year ago and at the time, it sounded like it was just a fad. Since then, it has grown to be hugely popular yet I have seen nothing to suggest that it's still not a fad!

However to be fair to it, maybe it's better to try something first and then criticize it rather than not try it at all.

The Twitter Experiment....

As an experiment, there are at least 2 runners in Cork who now use Twitter to post information about their training runs and races. I guess the best thing to do is to have a look below and see what it's about. If enough Irish runners use it, it might be interesting to follow the training schedules of people who are training for the same events here in Ireland rather than say following people on the other side of the world.

Invitation...

If you are living in Cork / Ireland and want to join in, then open a Twitter account and leave a comment here with your User Name and maybe your real name (optional). I'm not sure if this experiment will go anywhere (or will be of any use!) but unless you try, you'll never know.

Update Oct 2010....I have created a list of Cork runners on Twitter HERE. Please note that those included mainly tweet about running.

Looking ahead to the race in Fota in May...

One of the more unusual local races this year will no doubt be the 4 mile race in Fota Wildlife Park in May. The fact that it is in such a nice spot and a unique location, it should appeal to a lot of runners.

The guys from Eagle AC were out measuring the course last weekend and there is now a set of photos up on the Eagle website showing the route. There is one small section that is along a piece of public road but otherwise, the rest of the course is inside the park itself. Judging from the photos, it looks like it will be a really nice race.

Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon and Marathon Relay 2009....Part 4 of 12 by Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA

(Mick Dooley of the Cork Business Houses Athletic Association wrote a 12 part series of articles for the Evening Echo last year. Needless to say, they are as valid this year as last year so I will be republishing them here (...with a few changes) on this website. They are written with the beginner in mind. Part 4 is based on 9 weeks to go, about the 30th of March).

Week 4...Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon - Nutrition guide to marathon preparation

Now that most of you have taken some sort of training plan for the marathon you must make sure that you take care of that body of yours. As a result of marathon training it is often the case that before we know it we have increased our weekly mileage by much more than the body was used to during regular exercise. This of course puts the body under much more stress and strain, this is all the more reason we should increase our food intake. The food we eat is the fuel we need to run our bodies. Carbohydrates are the source of the body's fuel energy so it is essential you increase your carbohydrate intake when training for a marathon or half marathon.

You should have something substantial to eat in advance of your long run a fruit scone or some bananas and also try to take a small amount on board while on the run. After training eat a snack that includes carbohydrate and some protein which will help to repair damaged tissue as a result of a tough training session. You should not let your training affect your regular meal times.

The same applies to getting proper rest and sleep a good sleeping pattern is important. Eight hours a night is vital for anyone that is active and this should increase up to twelve hours per day for individuals involved with intensive training marathon or long distance running.

Food Supplements.........It is not recommended to take any food supplements however many athletes use a short course of glucosamine tablets which help to keep the joints oiled up. Cod liver oil tablets are also recommended for healthy bones and good joints.

Healthy eating tips.......Start the day with a good healthy breakfast. Eat a wide variety of food plenty of fruit and a selection of vegetables. Avoid fizzy drinks and sugary foods. Keep plenty of fruits and nuts close at hand for snacking. Enjoy your food

Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon Training Guide

Week 4 of the 12 Week training plan (...intended for the 30th of March)

Beginners

Week 4.....Mon, 30mins easy, Tue, rest, Wed 60 mins easy, Thurs 20 mins jog, Fri, 45 mins easy, Sat rest, Sun. 10km race or 60mins easy

Improvers

Week 4.....Mon 50mins easy, Tues rest/jog, Wed 75 mins steady, Thurs 6x3mins fast, Fri rest, Sat 40mins easy, Sun half marathon distance

Serious Runners

Week 4.....Mon 45 mins easy, Tues warm ups 16 x 1 min warm downs, Wed 75 mins steady, Thurs 6x5 mins fast, Fri rest/jog, Sat warm ups 10mins fast x2 warm downs, Sun half marathon distance

Please note you should use a reasonable recovery time between your repetitions.

Regards........Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA 087-9790806 , Cork City Marathon

Cheap entries for the Cork City Marathon & Relay...

Just a last reminder that Tuesday, the 31st of March is the closing date for the cheap entries for the Cork City Marathon & Relay. The entry fee for the full Marathon is €60 while the entry fee for a relay team is €90. There is an extra charge of 10% if you wish to enter online.

From Wednesday, the 1st of April onwards, the cost will increase by €10 for both events.

For entry forms and details, see the Cork City Marathon website

Results of the Cork County AAI Road Championships...Sun 29th March 2009

The Cork Couty championships took place on Sunday 29th in the village of Carrignavar just North of Cork City. The mens race was over a 4 mile circuit that had plenty of drags in it with a good headwind to the finish. The womens race was over 2 miles with a very tough uphill start and had the same finish as the mens race. Perhaps not the easiest of courses but the roads were nice and quiet with nothing but fields and hedgerows on both sides of the road. Best description would be 'tough but nice'........kind of ;o)

The results of the mens race is HERE.

The results of the womens race is HERE.

The category results can be found on the Cork AAI website.

Forefoot Running and Running Form....
Someone sent me a link to the following video. It covers the subject of forefoot running. i.e. landing on the front half of your shoe instead of landing on the heel of our shoe while you run.
It should be noted that this video was produced by a company called Newton Running who are selling running shoes especially made for this type of running.



Comments...??

Munster Ten-Mile Spring Classics Series...Positions after 3 races

A total of 243 runners have now completed the first 3 races in the Munster Ten-Mile Spring Classics Series....the Mallow 10, the Dungarvan 10 and the Ballycotton 10. That's a big jump up from the figure of 177 at the same point last year.

The chart showing the overall positions after 3 races can now be seen HERE.....(compiled by Jerry McCarthy of Mallow AC)...(Updated Fri 10th April)

The last and final race in the series is the Kilnaboy 10 on the 12th of April. More details can be found at http://homepage.eircom.net/~corkrunning/Kilnaboy_10mile_Road_Race.html

Events coming up this weekend...Sun 29th March

1) For anyone interested in a slow training run, Kevin Daly is doing 12 miles at 9-10 min/mile pace from Harty's Quay car park in Rochestown (...see map above). Several people have expressed an interest in these runs so if you are interested, they are starting at 8am on Sunday. More details in an earlier post.

2) The AAI Cork County Novice and Masters road championships take place in Carrignavar on Sunday. The mens race will start at 1:30pm and will be over 4 miles. The womens race is over 2 miles shortly afterwards. These races are open to club athletes only. There is an entry form HERE. Anyone interested in running should contact their club secretary asap.

3) For anyone prepared to travel, there is a 4 mile road race in Waterford City starting at 11am. More details on the Running in Munster website.

The ‘C’ Team for the 2009 Cork City Marathon Relay...

I'm sure that most of the regular runners in Cork are aware that John Quigley of Eagle AC went through a serious illness last year. At present, he is trying to put together a 'special' team for the Cork City Marathon Relay. Please read the piece below from John and see if you can help...

"I had a routine blood test three years ago, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in Jan 2008 and had major surgery on May 22nd 2008. I resumed running in August 2008.

With the 'C' word in mind, I’m appealing for relay runners for the Cork City Marathon.

You need to be either living with or recovering from some form of cancer to get on the team, so, thankfully, most people won’t qualify for a place. The primary aim of this relay team is to raise cancer awareness and to show that cancer diagnosis does not necessarily mean the end of your sporting life, in fact participation is one of the best therapies. There are 5 legs to the relay, so those on the team can raise money, if they wish, for their own chosen charity.

Almost all of your blog readers thankfully will not qualify but I’m hoping that they will pass on the message to others they know. I need help to fill the team, so please pass it on! There are plenty of people with cancer, from all sporting backgrounds, e.g. swimming, cycling, running, GAA, soccer, rugby and so on.
Why don’t we get together and do this! I have a few people interested, but not enough to field a team. Several are doing the full marathon. It doesn’t matter how slow you think you are – what we’ve been through takes a heavy toll – what matters is that we will be there!

Contact me at 021-4891903 (home), 087-6261178 (outside office & running hours) or at

eagle262@eircom.net

You can read my story, published in the 2009 Ballycotton 10 program, here: http://www.eagleac.net/content/view/163/2/

..................John Quigley, Eagle AC"

Press Release for launch of Cork City Marathon...

Switch On to the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon!

~ 10,000 runners expected to take over Cork on June 1st ~

Friday, 13th March Bord Gáis Energy officially announces sponsorship of the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon. Cork’s leading sports stars Graham Canty, Gillian O’Sullivan and Aoife Murray got on their marks yesterday to launch the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon, which is expected to attract a record 10,000 entries this year.

The Irish Cancer Society has been nominated as the charity of choice for the event.

Speaking at the launch, John Mullins, Chief Executive of Bord Gáis said: “The Cork City Marathon is a unique event for the city each year which energises and motivates people to get out there and make a difference as a healthy lifestyle choice and in supporting the numerous charities that are involved. The option of entering a relay team is a great incentive for people at all levels of fitness and experience to get involved and we’re delighted to be associated with an event of this calibre. This is all about encouraging both existing and budding enthusiasts to get out, get fit and enjoy the day. Entering the race is as easy as making the Big Switch to Bord Gàis Energy.”

The Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon will take place on June 1st this year. The ‘Marathon for Everyone’, encourages individuals of all levels to get involved – from first timers to professional athletes, with the option of running the marathon as an individual or as part of a relay team.

Speaking at the official launch of the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon, Cork City Council’s Lord Mayor Cllr. Brian Bermingham said: “This is a fantastic partnership which will help to promote the marathon nationally and regionally. Last year’s marathon had over 7,000 entries and was a brilliant showcase for the city of Cork. With Bord Gàis Energy on board we can be sure that the event will grow along with the ambitions we have for it,”

“Teams of up to five people can run the marathon so anyone with a little bit of training can take part,” added the Lord Mayor. “Last year we had over 1,000 relay teams running for all sorts of reasons – for a myriad of charities, as part of a social club or just as good friends getting together to complete the event. It makes for a superb atmosphere on the day with teams cheering their last leg runner home to the finish.”

Concluding, Jim McCormack, Chief Executive of the Irish Cancer Society noted: “The Irish Cancer Society is delighted to have been chosen by the Bord Gáis Cork City Marathon as their nominated charity for 2009. Running or walking is a great way to keep fit and being physically active helps avoid weight gain, obesity and reduces your risk of cancer. Therefore, we encourage as many people as possible to put on their running shoes and get involved in what is sure to be a challenging, empowering and worthwhile event. All proceeds raised will go towards our patient care services which advise and support people as they go through their cancer journey.”

The Bord Gàis Energy Cork City Marathon will take place on Bank Holiday Monday 1st June 2009 and is supported by Cork City Council who are committed to growing the event to become one of the major events in the Irish sporting calendar.

Entry forms are available at: http://www.corkcitymarathon.ie/

- End -

************************

Please note that the cheapest entries for the Cork City Marathon & Relay are before the 31st of March. It costs €60 to do the full Marathon and €90 for a relay team at the moment. From the 1st of April, the prices increase by €10.

Next Marathon in Dingle, Kerry next September...

There will be a new Half-Marathon and Marathon in Dingle, Kerry next September. It seems to be on the same weekend that the Cork Half Marathon in Blarney usually takes place.

More details on the Running in Munster website.

Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon and Marathon Relay 2009....Part 3 of 12 by Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA

(Mick Dooley of the Cork Business Houses Athletic Association wrote a 12 part series of articles for the Evening Echo last year. Needless to say, they are as valid this year as last year so I will be republishing them here (...with a few changes) on this website. They are written with the beginner in mind. Part 3 is based on 10 weeks to go, about the 23rd of March).

Week 3...Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon and Team Relay Event

Team Relay Event...

The Cork City Marathon saw the introduction of the team relay event in 2007 and this was a great success again last year in 2008. It was a bit of a shot into the unknown for race organisers at first but thankfully with a bit of research and planning, this proved to be a very worthwhile and rewarding experience for all concerned. This year’s marathon will once again include the team relay event and as the name suggests is a marathon for everyone. It should be noted that there is no half marathon event incorporated. Similar to last year, there will be 5 relay legs which can be completed by teams of between 2 and 5 runners. Full details of official change over points will appear on the website shortly. Entry Fee for teams is €90 up until 31st March. Please ensure that your entry form is fully complete with the correct entry fee enclosed and cheques made payable to Cork City Council. If you are in the relay event you must put down the names of your other team members and ensure that the form is signed by the team captain.If you are in training or considering taking part this year relay you should enter in some of the events been organised locally. There are many events listed on the Cork Bhaa website www.corkbhaa.com which will have events taking place right up to and including the marathon. This will give you an opportunity to meet and run alongside other local runners who can offer lots of advice and encouragement and even give you details of group training sessions which may be of interest to you.

Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon Training Guide

Week 3 of the 12 week training plan (...intended for the 23rd of March)

Beginners

Week 3...Mon 30mins easy, Tue Rest, Wed 60 mins easy, Thurs Rest, Fri 6x3 mins fast Sat, Rest jog, Sun 90mins easy.

Improvers

Week 3...Mon 45mins easy, Tue Rest/jog, Wed 75mins steady, Thurs 8x2mins fast, Fri Rest, Sat 60mins include 30mins fast, Sun 2hours very easy

Serious Runners

Week 3...Mon 45 mins easy, Tues Hill 8x2mins, Wed 75 mins easy, Thurs 5x5 mins fast, Fri Rest/jog, Sat 45 mins steady, Sun 2 hrs 15mins easy.

Please note you should use a reasonable recovery time between your repetitions.

Regards........Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA 087-9790806 , Cork City Marathon

Cork County Novice & Masters Road Championships...Sun 29th March 2009

The county championships for Novice and Masters runners in Cork will take place in Carrignavar next Sunday, the 29th of March at 1:30pm. This is open to club athletes and anyone interested in taking part should contact their club secretary as soon as possible.

The mens race is 4 miles and the womens race is 2 miles.

The entry form is HERE.

Training Run next Sunday in Rochestown, Sun 22nd March...

With just over 10 weeks to go, it's time to start getting in those long runs if you are thinking about doing the Cork City Marathon. With that in mind, a local runner named Kieran Daly is going to do a series of long training runs every Sunday morning. The runs start at 8am sharp from the car park near Harty's Quay (accross the road from the Rochestown Inn) on the Rochestown Road. The pace is pretty relaxed (9 to 10 minute per mile) and might suit someone aiming to do their first Marathon.

Here is an overview of the planned runs...

Sunday.......Distance

22-Mar-09........10

29-Mar-09........12

05-Apr-09........14 or the UCC 10k race

12-Apr-09........14

19-Apr-09........15

26-Apr-09........15

03-May-09.......18

10-May-09.......12

17-May-09.......8

24-May-09.....Taper

Kieran has set up a blog for these training runs and you can find his e-mail address there if you are interested.

Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon and Marathon Relay 2009....Part 2 of 12 by Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA

(Mick Dooley of the Cork Business Houses Athletic Association wrote a 12 part series of articles for the Evening Echo last year. Needless to say, they are as valid this year as last year so I will be republishing them here (...with a few changes) on this website. They are written with the beginner in mind. Part 2 is based on 11 weeks to go, about the 16th of March).

Week 2... Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon.

The Marathon Event

Now that many of you have completed the Ballycotton 10, the main focus should now turn to the next main event of the Summer, the Champion Sports Cork City Marathon. If you are one of the lucky ones to have taken part in the 10 mile event, you are on the first step of your marathon training. If not, you should now experience a 10 mile run and continue to build it up slowly over the next 8 to 10 weeks. It is advisable not to increase your total weekly mileage by more 10% per week. Your long runs each week should however be increased by 10%. It is important that you keep a diary and log your training efforts each day.

If you are taking part in the marathon for the very first time, it is not advisable to set a finish time as a target. Your main objective for your first marathon should be to finish and enjoy the event as a whole. Regardless of your split times for your 10 mile or half marathon distance, you should not put the added pressure on yourself of setting a finish time. The main objective is to conquer the distance for the first time and then attempt personal bests in subsequent marathons.

Only 10% of all marathon runners break the 3 hour mark for the marathon, this is just below 7 minute miles which seems very achievable for many runners. However, the marathon must be treated with respect and a reasonable and achievable target should be set. It should be noted that the trained athletes body is designed to run comfortably for 90 to 100 minutes. After that time, the body needs some specific and fine tune training to overcome and complete the marathon distance. Much of this training should be long slow distance L.S.D. with the emphasis on the amount of time spent on your legs. This is why it is important we do long mileage. It is important that we also train ourselves to eat and drink while doing our long runs. This means eating small amounts on a regular basis and be able to take drink on board also. The best drink to take is water as that will be freely available in all marathons; it is unwise to take any new sports drinks on race day unless you have used them in training and like wise with fruit or food on race day. The burn up of carbohydrates will lead to a depletion of glycogen stores. A good source of food may be carbohydrate gel sachets washed down with water to avoid stomach cramps and ensure absorption.Note: all free time must be availed of when training for the marathon, lunch breaks or before or after shift work are fine for a 30 minute run on an easy day.

Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon Training Guide
Week 2 of the 12 week training plan (intended for the 16th of March)

Beginners

Week 2...Mon: 40mins easy, Tue: Rest, Wed: 50mins easy, Thurs: rest, Fri: 12x2mins fast, Sat: Rest/jog, Sun: 75mins easy

Improvers

Week 2...Mon: 45mins easy, Tue: Rest, Wed: 60mins easy, Thurs: 12x1 min fast, Fri: Rest, Sat: 60mins include 30mins fast, Sun: 100mins easy

Serious Runners

Week 2...Mon: 45mins easy, Tues: Hills 12x1mins, Wed: 60mins easy, Thurs: 4x5mins fast, Fri: rest, Sat: 45mins steady, Sun: 2 hours easy. Please note you should use a reasonable recovery time between your repetitions.

Regards........Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA 087-9790806 , Cork City Marathon

Results of the Rising Sun 4 mile road race - Tues 17th March 2009

This race took place on a lovely sunny spring morning with a slight easterly breeze...nice conditions for a short race. The big suprise was the number of runners however....194!! To put that into perspective, it's worth looking back over the results of the last few years...

2006 (5k course)......65 entries

2007 (Present 4m course)...87 entries

2008.......99 entries

If you had to guess beforehand, you might expect maybe 100-120 entries for the race today but 194! Why??? Perhaps the fact that there was no local race last Sunday and nothing on next Sunday might have helped. But even allowing for that, 194 runners for what is supposed to be one of the smaller local races is a suprise. It will be interesting to see what the numbers are like for the Cork BHAA UCC 10k on the 5th of April.

While we're on that subject, I may as well give it a plug as a certain well known local runner is constantly reminding me about it ;o) She gave me a full description today of the new Dell 'mini' laptop that they will have as a prize in a draw for all runners. Course...out the Lee road and in the Straight road. I'll preview it here a few days beforehand.

Photos........Paudie Birmingham has photos of the race on this Picasa gallery. Paudie also has his own photo website with pictures of local races.

So, on the todays results.......

5th Annual Paddy Desmond Memorial
BALLINHASSIG '4'
Tuesday 17 March 2009. 11:00am
Place Time Name Team Race Age Category min/mile
1 0:21:03 SOSNOWSKI, Wieslaw Eagle AC M 05:15.7 461 1
2 0:21:55 HEFFERNAN, Elton Togher AC M 05:28.7 542 2
3 0:22:02 WILMOTT, Kevin Bandon AC M 05:30.4 452 3
4 0:22:14 LAFFAN, Tom Bandon AC M40 05:33.4 438 4
5 0:22:16 O'DRISCOLL, James Skibbereen AC M 05:33.9 401 5
6 0:22:27 DE BURCA, Cosmos Rising Sun AC M 05:36.7 455 6
7 0:22:57 WAUGH, George Rising Sun AC M 05:44.2 502 7
8 0:23:04 COAKLEY, Donal Togher AC M 05:45.9 464 8
9 0:23:05 O'CALLAGHAN, Tadhg Togher AC M 05:46.2 409 9
10 0:23:12 BROWNE, Austin Eagle AC M40 05:47.9 493 10
11 0:23:15 WALSH, Joe Ballinacurra M 05:48.7 412 11
12 0:23:17 BRICE, Brendan East Cork AC M 05:49.2 417 12
13 0:23:20 O'DONOVAN, Eamonn Rising Sun AC M 05:49.9 503 13
14 0:23:22 DUGGAN, Paul St. Finbarrs AC M40 05:50.4 422 14
15 0:23:23 O'CONNOR, Brian Grange-Fermoy AC M 05:50.7 586 15
16 0:23:25 ROTHERY, Colm Gneeveguilla AC M45 05:51.2 483 16
17 0:23:34 HENNESSY, John Midleton AC M 05:53.4 515 17
18 0:23:36 MACKLIN, Stephen Togher AC M 05:53.9 408 18
19 0:23:44 SHEEHAN, Tom Bandon AC M45 05:55.9 524 19
20 0:23:46 LYNCH, John St. Finbarrs AC M 05:56.4 558 20
21 0:24:17 WOLFE, Eric Cork M 06:04.1 602 21
22 0:24:19 CURTIN, Martin Castlemartyr M 06:04.6 430 22
23 0:24:20 DESMOND, John Eagle AC M40 06:04.9 562 23
24 0:24:26 O'DWYER, David East Cork AC M 06:06.4 439 24
25 0:24:27 POWER, Pat Eagle AC M 06:06.6 561 25
26 0:24:31 BYCZEK, Stanislaw Midleton AC M45 06:07.6 462 26
27 0:24:34 CARROLL, Denis Eagle AC M45 06:08.4 485 27
28 0:24:41 MCMAHON, Conor West Muskerry AC M40 06:10.1 446 28
29 0:24:44 COSGRAVE, James St. Finbarrs AC M 06:10.9 604 29
30 0:24:47 FITZGERALD, Tom West Limerick AC M45 06:11.6 544 30
31 0:24:48 WALSH, Paud Eagle AC M 06:11.9 588 31
32 0:24:48 MCGRATH, Grellan Eagle AC M40 06:11.9 469 32
33 0:24:49 WALSH, Colin Cork M 06:12.1 582 33
34 0:24:50 MAYBURY, Kevin CIT AC M 06:12.4 402 34
35 0:24:50 PIKE, Nicholas Carraig na bhFear AC M 06:12.4 525 35
36 0:24:52 TWOMEY, Donal West Muskerry AC M 06:12.9 432 36
37 0:24:52 MCMAHON, Mark West Muskerry AC M 06:12.9 445 37
38 0:24:56 CASHMAN, John Midleton AC M40 06:13.9 480 38
39 0:24:59 O'CALLAGHAN, David Eagle AC M40 06:14.6 589 39
40 0:25:12 HICKEY, David St. Finbarrs AC M 06:17.9 587 40
41 0:25:18 DUNPHY, John Midleton AC M40 06:19.4 424 41
42 0:25:24 LEONARD, Helen Rathfarnham-WSAF AC F35 06:20.9 566 42
43 0:25:41 TWOMEY, Pat Eagle AC M55 06:25.1 440 43
44 0:25:54 MURPHY, Pat Eagle AC M50 06:28.4 421 44
45 0:25:59 TIERNEY, Conor East Cork AC M 06:29.6 516 45
46 0:26:02 MAHER, Shane Grange-Fermoy AC M 06:30.4 585 46
47 0:26:11 O'SULLIVAN, John Bandon AC M 06:32.6 508 47
48 0:26:16 DENNEHY, Aidan Sportsworld RC M 06:33.9 528 48
49 0:26:23 GEARY, Kevin Ladysbridge M 06:35.6 425 49
50 0:26:27 O'BRIEN, Conor Eagle AC M 06:36.6 454 50
51 0:26:29 GEARY, Linda Midleton AC F 06:37.1 540 51
52 0:26:30 MULLANE, Eddie Rising Sun AC M60 06:37.4 413 52
53 0:26:44 CRONIN, Denis Mallow AC M45 06:40.9 456 53
54 0:26:54 O'HERLIHY, Colin Carrigaline M 06:43.4 550 54
55 0:26:57 WALLACE, Ray West Muskerry AC M 06:44.1 447 55
56 0:26:58 COTTER, Brian Bandon M 06:44.4 517 56
57 0:26:58 GEARY, Ann Midleton AC F 06:44.4 541 57
58 0:26:59 DOOLEY, Michael Eagle AC M40 06:44.6 575 58
59 0:27:08 O'CONNELL, John Midleton AC M 06:46.9 500 59
60 0:27:08 WOLFE, Joyce Cork F 06:46.9 601 60
61 0:27:09 MCEVOY, Eamonn St. Finbarrs AC M50 06:47.1 563 61
62 0:27:12 O'HALLORAN, Declan Bandon AC M45 06:47.9 441 62
63 0:27:13 RAHILLY, Patrick Cork M 06:48.1 504 63
64 0:27:16 O'BRIEN, Con Banteer M55 06:48.9 448 64
65 0:27:20 MURPHY, Michael Midleton AC M 06:49.9 429 65
66 0:27:23 O'CONNOR, Pat Eagle AC M40 06:50.6 468 66
67 0:27:24 ROCHE, Paul Rising Sun AC M45 06:50.9 546 67
68 0:27:30 CAREY, Ken Cork M50 06:52.4 535 68
69 0:27:36 O'HANLON, Colman Mallow AC M 06:53.9 481 69
70 0:27:40 BUCKLEY, Tim-Joe Donoughmore AC M55 06:54.9 463 70
71 0:27:41 MURPHY, JJ West Muskerry AC M45 06:55.1 431 71
72 0:27:46 DENNEHY, Anthony Star Of The Laune M 06:56.4 565 72
73 0:27:49 MURPHY, Phil Bandon AC M45 06:57.1 435 73
74 0:27:56 RAMSELL, Ned Midleton AC M 06:58.9 411 74
75 0:27:58 LOONEY, Denis Eagle AC M40 06:59.4 460 75
76 0:28:02 BIRMINGHAM, Paudie Mallow AC M 07:00.4 453 76
77 0:28:04 BYRD, Charlie Cork M40 07:00.9 423 77
78 0:28:05 O'LEARY, Kieran Enniskeane M 07:01.1 520 78
79 0:28:07 AMBROSE, Ian Cork M 07:01.6 518 79
80 0:28:09 O'SULLIVAN, Pat Bandon AC M55 07:02.1 509 80
81 0:28:15 GYVES, Paddy Mallow AC M60 07:03.6 472 81
82 0:28:20 SHINE, Donie Duhallow AC M50 07:04.9 487 82
83 0:28:21 CAREY, Alan Cork M45 07:05.1 534 83
84 0:28:26 HOLLAND, John Mallow AC M60 07:06.4 482 84
85 0:28:35 SULLIVAN, Brian Eagle AC M 07:08.6 519 85
86 0:28:44 O'REILLY, John Monkstown M 07:10.9 545 86
87 0:28:46 O'CALLAGHAN, Rachel Cork F35 07:11.4 579 87
88 0:28:47 HICKEY, James Cork M 07:11.6 590 88
89 0:28:48 LORDAN, Derry Carrigaline M 07:11.9 573 89
90 0:28:56 CAHILL , Seamus Eagle AC M45 07:13.9 570 90
91 0:29:02 O'MAHONY, Pat Eagle AC M40 07:15.4 475 91
92 0:29:03 KELLY, Thomas Ballymore-Cobh AC M50 07:15.6 507 92
93 0:29:07 WALSHE, John East Cork AC M55 07:16.6 410 93
94 0:29:32 COTTER, David Belgooly AC M60 07:22.9 407 94
95 0:29:33 WALSH, Pat Cork M40 07:23.1 538 95
96 0:29:37 LINEHAN, Frank Togher AC M55 07:24.1 495 96
97 0:29:38 HISTON-DEBARRA, Mary Rising Sun AC F35 07:24.4 436 97
98 0:29:39 MURPHY, Aine Kerry Pike F45 07:24.6 443 98
99 0:29:39 CAHILL, Breda Midleton AC F35 07:24.6 498 99
100 0:29:46 COTTER, John Cork M 07:26.4 479 100
101 0:29:47 NAGLE, Deirdre Cork F 07:26.6 580 101
102 0:29:47 HENNESSY, Killian Cork M 07:26.6 584 102
103 0:29:48 O'CONNOR, Noel Carrigaline M50 07:26.9 532 103
104 0:29:51 HALPIN, Marc Ballincollig AC M 07:27.6 547 104
105 0:29:52 MOYNIHAN, Tom Camp M 07:27.9 449 105
106 0:29:54 O'DONOGHUE, Donal Little Island M40 07:28.4 571 106
107 0:29:58 MCCARTHY, Danny Midleton AC M55 07:29.4 505 107
108 0:30:00 O'LEARY, Brendan Riverstick-Kinsale AC M 07:29.9 494 108
109 0:30:04 LYONS, Finbarr Midleton AC M 07:30.9 426 109
110 0:30:06 HARTIGAN, Peter Carraig na bhFear AC M 07:31.4 526 110
111 0:30:12 O'REGAN, Padraig Ladysbridge M 07:32.9 427 111
112 0:30:12 O'CONNELL, Donie Midleton AC M55 07:32.9 471 112
113 0:30:15 O'SHEA, Michael Cork M 07:33.6 552 113
114 0:30:15 MURPHY, Siobhan Eagle AC F 07:33.6 492 114
115 0:30:21 MCREA, Deirdre Cork F 07:35.1 568 115
116 0:30:23 TWOHIG, Monica Eagle AC F45 07:35.6 442 116
117 0:30:24 KEARNEY, Batt Leevale AC M50 07:35.9 420 117
118 0:30:30 QUIGLEY, John Eagle AC M55 07:37.4 603 118
119 0:30:31 CORRIGAN, Aine Cork F 07:37.6 577 119
120 0:30:32 GARRY, Peter Eagle AC M 07:37.9 457 120
121 0:30:33 LINEHAN, Ted Eagle AC M55 07:38.1 574 121
122 0:30:45 O'LEARY, Neillie Belgooly AC M60 07:41.1 555 122
123 0:30:48 COLEMAN, Barry Cork M 07:41.9 539 123
124 0:30:52 O'CALLAGHAN, Denis Glanmire M40 07:42.9 543 124
125 0:30:54 O'LEARY, John Leevale AC M65 07:43.4 403 125
126 0:30:56 CRONIN, Niamh Tower F 07:43.9 560 126
127 0:30:57 MULCAHY, Mary St. Finbarrs AC F45 07:44.1 510 127
128 0:31:11 PHELAN, Kevin Eagle AC M 07:47.6 554 128
129 0:31:12 RONAN, Michael Kinsale M40 07:47.9 404 129
130 0:31:16 O'HANLON, Don Cork M 07:48.9 567 130
131 0:31:28 BUCKLEY, Aidan Eagle AC M45 07:51.9 522 131
132 0:31:31 HENNESSY, Eoin Carrigaline M 07:52.6 450 132
133 0:31:32 TWOMEY, Jerry Duhallow AC M50 07:52.9 486 133
134 0:31:39 MCCARTHY, Michael West Waterford AC M50 07:54.6 491 134
135 0:31:47 LYNCH, Grainne Minane Bridge F 07:56.6 557 135
136 0:31:47 HIGGINS, Mark Cork M 07:56.6 578 136
137 0:31:48 FOLEY, John West Waterford AC M55 07:56.9 556 137
138 0:31:49 SMYTH, Rose Cork F 07:57.1 583 138
139 0:32:10 O'DONOGHUE, Tim Kilmichael M45 08:02.4 521 139
140 0:32:14 EIGHAN, Irene Cork F 08:03.4 478 140
141 0:32:21 O'LEARY, Andrew Cork M 08:05.1 415 141
142 0:32:29 O'CALLAGHAN, John Glanmire M 08:07.1 470 142
143 0:32:29 O'CALLAGHAN, Tim Glanmire M45 08:07.1 533 143
144 0:32:32 WEBB, George Rising Sun AC M65 08:07.9 548 144
145 0:32:35 KELLEHER, Padraig Cork M 08:08.6 581 145
146 0:32:36 COONEY, Tony Ballincollig AC M50 08:08.9 474 146
147 0:32:37 O'SULLIVAN, Martin Ballincollig AC M50 08:09.1 473 147
148 0:32:42 HENNESSY, Elaine Midleton AC F50 08:10.4 428 148
149 0:32:43 O'SULLIVAN, John Glanmire M 08:10.6 433 149
150 0:32:50 LYONS, Marion St. Finbarrs AC F50 08:12.4 414 150
151 0:32:52 DALY, Paddy Cork M60 08:12.9 419 151
152 0:32:56 SAVAGE, Ann Midleton AC F45 08:13.9 499 152
153 0:33:05 TIERNEY, Ken Minane Bridge M 08:16.1 444 153
154 0:33:08 DUNNE, Tony Grange-Fermoy AC M65 08:16.9 530 154
155 0:33:20 CLIFFORD, Sonya Cork F35 08:19.9 476 155
156 0:33:36 ROHAN, Margaret Midleton AC F50 08:23.9 437 156
157 0:34:08 HADDEN, Eileen Kinsale F40 08:31.9 406 157
158 0:34:08 O'CONNOR, Frances Carrigaline F45 08:31.9 531 158
159 0:34:20 SCANNELL, Paul Cork M 08:34.9 576 159
160 0:34:27 CREEDON, Hilary Aherla F 08:36.6 416 160
161 0:34:59 O'BRIEN, Dick Castlelyons M65 08:44.6 591 161
162 0:35:01 PHELAN, Brian Aherla M 08:45.1 600 162
163 0:35:12 LAWTON, Jerry Belgooly AC M55 08:47.9 496 163
164 0:35:14 SISK, Bernard Cork M60 08:48.4 537 164
165 0:35:14 HAYES, Brendan Carrigaline M55 08:48.4 459 165
166 0:35:17 CONNOLLY, John Cork M 08:49.1 536 166
167 0:35:28 DUNNE, Maggie Grange-Fermoy AC F60 08:51.9 529 167
168 0:35:30 HAYES, Ann Eagle AC F50 08:52.4 458 168
169 0:35:39 SPILLANE, James Coachford M40 08:54.6 467 169
170 0:35:45 CRONIN, Maria Tower F 08:56.1 559 170
171 0:35:59 KELLEHER, Frankie Cork F35 08:59.6 501 171
172 0:36:16 MANNING, Denis Cork M 09:03.9 527 172
173 0:36:26 SALORZ, Holly Kinsale F 09:06.4 477 173
174 0:36:42 KELLEHER, Frank Cork M65 09:10.4 549 174
175 0:37:26 SPILLANE, Donal Cork M 09:21.4 569 175
176 0:37:35 O'CONNELL, Aine Rochestown F 09:23.6 551 176
177 0:37:39 MCCARTHY, Joan Midleton AC F50 09:24.6 506 177
178 0:37:40 FLEMING, Pat Cork M45 09:24.9 490 178
179 0:37:56 O'CONNELL, Donnacha Cork M 09:28.9 484 179
180 0:38:10 MURPHY, Aoife Carrigaline F 09:32.4 451 180
181 0:38:15 O'SHEA, Mary Cork F 09:33.6 553 181
182 0:38:30 RONAN, Bernie Riverstick-Kinsale AC F40 09:37.4 405 182
183 0:38:31 SHEEHAN, Mark Coachford M 09:37.6 572 183
184 0:40:27 LOONEY, Deirdre Passage West F35 10:06.6 418 184
185 0:42:59 GLAVIN, Bernice Cork F50 10:44.6 564 185
186 0:43:18 TOHER, Mary Midleton AC F50 10:49.4 497 186
187 0:46:05 TREACY, Caroline Cork F 11:31.1 488 187
188 0:46:10 HONOHAN, Eada Cork F35 11:32.3 489 188
189 0:48:12 MURPHY, Una Kilkenny F35 12:02.8 465 189
190 0:48:13 COLLINS, Fergal Sligo M 12:03.1 466 190
191 0:50:59 BUNCE, Majella Cork F 12:44.6 514 191
192 0:51:00 HURLEY, Maria West Waterford AC F 12:44.8 513 192
193 0:51:55 O'DONOGHUE, Helen Riverstick-Kinsale AC F55 12:58.6 512 193
WHEELCHAIR: Forde, Jerry Blarney-Inniscarra AC M55 44:01

(...with thanks to John Walshe of Ballycotton Running Promotions for the above results)

Rising Sun AC 4 mile Road Race (Ballinhassig) - Tues 17th Mar (11am)

Rising Sun Athletic Club are holding their annual 4 mile road race next Tuesday, the 17th of March at 11am. The registration point is the Marian Hall in the middle of Ballinhassig which is just off the main N71 Cork to Bandon road. There is plenty of parking alongside the hall itself.

Race Flyer...Here is some of the info off their race flyer...Rising Sun A.C. ...5th ANNUAL Paddy Desmond Memorial ...4 Mile Road Race ...Tuesday March 17th at 11.00am ...In Ballinhassig....Race H.Q. Marian Hall (lower Ballinhassig) Awards 1st 2nd and 3rd Senior Men and Senior Ladies , 1st 3 Men O 40,45,50,55,60 and 65. , 1st 3 Women O 35,40,45,50,55 and 60. , 1st Wheelchair Athlete. , Entry Fee 8 Euro , Enquiries to Jim Murray 086 3320461. (Flyer HERE)

The course...The race starts about 300 metres away from the Marian Hall. The first section of the race is a tough and uphill drag as you gain height and pass underneath the N71 Cork to Bandon road. Once the hill flattens out, you are on to the old Bandon road and this road is fairly quiet at this time of the morning. There are a few small drags along this section but nothing compared to the inital one at the start.You run into the village of Halfway and then left and out onto the main N71 road. From about the 2 mile mark to about 3.5 miles, the course is flat and going slightly uphill at the end as you run inside a very wide hard shoulder on the road.

After about 3.5 miles, the road begins to climb and the hard shoulder begins to narrow. Soon, you reach a bridge and you can see the road you passed under at the start of the race. Just after this, you turn left and you now have a downhill run all the way to the finish.

Overall...Due to the hill at the start, it's probably not the fastest of 4 mile road races. But seeing as how it is 9 days after Ballycotton and 3 weeks before the UCC 10 km race, it's a good excuse to get out and stretch those legs! In fairness to the members of Rising Sun AC, they are very good at supporting all of the local races so now is your chance to return the compliment....Ballinhassig...11am.

If you want to have a look at the course, I have put it up on the MapMyRun website. Here is the LINK.

Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon and Marathon Relay 2009....Part 1 of 12 by Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA

(Mick Dooley of the Cork Business Houses Athletic Association wrote a 12 part series of articles for the Evening Echo last year. Needless to say, they are as valid this year as last year so I will be republishing them here (...with a few changes) on this website. They are written with the beginner in mind. Part 1 is based on 12 weeks to go, about the 9th of March).

This year (2009), Bord Gais Energy are the main sponsor for the Cork City Marathon and Marathon relay. This is a very exciting prospect for the event and should bring plenty of countrywide interest in the event this year. 2008 saw over 7,000 entries in both events (2007 = 5,000) and it is expected to add another 3,000 to that this year. Once again with the success of last years relay event, it is expected to have a further increase here with relay legs from 4 to 7 miles.

The Course........This year the Marathon route will remain very similar to last year with the spectacular Start and finish areas in Patrick Street remaining the same.

Entries.........Entry forms will soon be available in sports stores and leisure clubs. It would be hoped that entries would pick up before the increase of entry fee on March 31st . Full details of entry fees and closing dates are on the website at www.corkcitymarathon.ie or for entry forms contact the marathon office at 021-4924170

Preparation........For anyone intending in doing this years marathon they should have a good base mileage built up already and should have at least experienced a 10 mile run. The best way to start your preparation is to send in an entry form and then plan your training schedule from there and of course relay runners should get involved in regular training and link up with a few training partners to put a team together. For anyone not already following a training Schedule, please find the following which may be of assistance

Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon 2009

Week 1 of the 12 week training plan (Intended for 10th March)

Beginners

Mon - 30 mins easy, Tue - Rest, Wed - 45 min easy, Thurs - Rest, Fri - 30 min easy, Sat - Rest, Sun - 60 min run/walk.

Improvers

Mon - 45 mins easy, Tues - 60 min easy, Wed - Rest, Thurs - 40 min include hills, Fri - Rest, Sat - warm up, 20 mins fast and then warm down, Sun - 1.5 hours easy.

Serious Runners

Mon - 45 mins easy, Tues - warm up, 12 x 1 min hard, warm down, Wed - 60 mins steady, Thurs - warm up, 6 x 3 mins hard, warm down, Fri - Rest, Sat - 45 mins easy, Sun - 1.5 hours steady.

The above plan may be varied between off road and track and rest days may include cross training or light gym work

Regards........Mick Dooley, Cork BHAA 087-9790806 , Cork City Marathon

Middle age 'key for exercising'.......BBC News item...
"Increasing activity levels in middle age can prolong life as much as giving up smoking, a study suggests. Swedish researchers from Uppsala University monitored more than 2,200 men from the age of 50.
They found those who increased activity levels from 50 to 60 ended up living as long as those who were already exercising regularly by middle age.
Public health experts said the findings showed it was never too late to start exercising.
The team asked the men about their activity levels at the start of the study in the early 1970s, when they were aged 50.
The men were put into three groups - high levels of activity, moderate levels and sedentary.
High levels was classed as those who did at least three hours of sports or heavy gardening each week.
Moderate was said to be the equivalent of several hours of walking or cycling, while people who were classed as sedentary spent most of their free time watching TV.
Their exercise habits were then reassessed at the age of 60.
The team found that those who were doing high levels of activity at the age of 50 lived 2.3 years longer than sedentary men and 1.1 years longer than those who reported medium levels of activity - once a range of factors such as weight, alcohol intake and smoking was taken into account.
But interestingly the researchers found that those who increased their activity level to high - whether they were in the moderate or low group - from the age of 50 to 60 also lived the longest.
It was not clear what effect reducing activity levels during this period had, the British Medical Journal report said.
Lead researcher Karl Michaelsson said the study showed it was essential to encourage men to become active, although he said more research would be needed to see if the effect was replicated in women.
He said the impact on lifespan was the same as for someone who gave up smoking during this period.
"Efforts for promotion of physical activity, even among middle aged and older men are important."
Professor Alan Maryon-Davis, president of the Faculty of Public Health, said: "These results are very interesting.
"It shows that it is never too late to start exercising. I think this period is very important for men and what is probably happening here is that the exercise during these years is strengthening their cardiovascular system.
"But, of course, other factors such as diet will play an important role."
Cathy Ross, cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: "The study adds support to what we already know, which is that people who are physically active are half as likely to get cardiovascular disease as those that are inactive.
"Being active at any age helps control your weight, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and will provide long term benefits for your heart health and general health."

Vounteers Required for Special Olympics Munster Athletics Event.....

Special Olympics Munster are looking for volunteers for their 2 regional athletics competitions which will be held in the Mardyke athletics track on Saturday the 16th May and Saturday the 13th June 2009 from 9.00am to 5.00pm. If you are interested and available to help out on one or both days please contact Mary Fitzgerald asap as volunteer clearance can take a number of weeks. No experience necessary as training will be provided. Contact Details: Phone 086 8953883

Chart and Chip...Ballycotton 10 2009...

1) Chart...

Sub 60...Following on from David O'Dwyer's article in the race programme, this is how the final numbers look after the race. There was a slight increase in the number of runners breaking the 60 minute barrier but still, the overall percentage is low so no great change there as you'd expect.

Overall total...first of all, a quick explaination. The dip in numbers in 2001 was because of the Foot & Mouth scare and the race was postponed until June. The peak in 2006 was when they did not restrict the numbers and just had a closing date instead.

As you can see from the chart, 2009 had the 2nd highest ever number of runners. Considering that the 2,500 initial limit has been there for the last 3 years, the growth in numbers now must be coming from club runners, summer series runners and overseas entrants. Looking at the trend and assuming they keep the same entry conditions, they will probably get somewhere between 2,400 and 2,500 runners next year. What would the numbers be like if there was no restriction? 4,000? 5,000? more??

2) Chip...

Just a reminder for anyone who had entered the 2009 Ballycotton race and didn't make it there on the day to send back their timing chip by post. By doing so, you will be guaranteed entry for next years event. In all likelyhood, you will have a full 2 weeks to get your entry in....as opposed to 24 hours!! ;o)

Report on the 'Evening with Ron Hill' in Ballycotton...

On the Saturday before the Ballycotton 10 road race, Ballycotton Running Promotions had organised an 'Evening with Ron Hill' event in a local hotel. By all accounts, it sounds like it was an interesting event and the following report was supplied by local runner Donal O'Donoghue...

"There were about 30-40 people in the room with several faces that I'd recognize from running.
The meeting was introduced by John Walshe of Ballycotton Running Promotions, who then handed over to Frank Greally, editor of the Irish Runner, who spoke for a few minutes, mentioning that he first saw Ron compete at the 1968 Mexico Games, whilst watching from a Pub in Ballyhaunis. Ron gave a good speech, and could even be said to be a good story teller! Tales of running on Cinder tracks, and training in heavy Army Boots. He's used to train up to three times every day, come rain or shine, with stories of running with Bunions, broken bones, septic injuries in his legs. He even ran barefooted at one time, and picked up a piece of glass in his heel, and continued to run with it embedded, in great pain, for a week, before he realized what had happened. End of barefoot running.
At his peak, he did 110-130 miles per week, in preparation for Marathon distances.
Ron took a question & answer session from the audience, and then signed autographed copies of his book: "Manchester Marathons" 1908-2002 by Ron Hill & Neil Shuttleworth

Frank Greally also had a book: "Running Commentary" - Thoughts occurring at intervals in the fields of athletics.

When asked who his role model may have been in his early days, he replied, "Alf Tupper - the Tough of the Track", in the "Rover" and later "Victor" a boys weekly comic book. I remember it well ;o)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alf_Tupper

http://www.toughofthetrack.net/Alf_canal.jpg

Throughout his running career, he had no coach, and even expressed dismay that of £100,000 Lottery money given to Athletics, £55,000 was given to ... Coach mentoring!
When asked about Hydration, etc, he told us how in the 1960s, runners were not allowed *any* water on the course before 10 miles.e.g. In the Ballycotton 10, there would be *no* water stations. One could have been disqualified for taking any water given by spectators on the course!
He echoed one of the earlier posts on the blog, where there are far more runners participating today, but turning in fewer records...
Overall, very informative, and entertaining!........Donal O'Donoghue"

Ballycotton 10 finishers by club....

These are the numbers of finishers by club with Midleton AC taking top spot...

Club...Finishers / Entries

Midleton AC...66 / 79 (2008=63)

Eagle AC...58 / 73 (2008=73)

Waterford AC...56 / 66 (2008=46)

West Waterford AC...55 / 75 (2008=87)

St. Finbarrs AC...39 / 47 (2008=46)

Slaney Olympic AC...38 / 47

Mallow AC...24 / 36

Kilkenny City Harriers...23 / 30

East Cork AC...22 / 23

Raheny Shamrock AC...22 / 20

Limerick Country Club AC...20 / 25

Mullingar Harriers...20 / 22

Donore harriers...19 / 25

Grange-Fermoy AC...17 / 24

Clonmel AC...15 / 20

Athenry AC...14 / 20

Thurles Crokes AC...14 / 18

Bandon AC...13 / 25

Limerick AC...13 / 21

Sportsworld RC...13 / 19

Donoughmore AC...13 / 14

Gneeveguilla AC...13 / 13

Rathfarnham-WSAF AC...11 / 13

Rising Sun AC...11 / 12

Sli Cualann AC...11 / 11

Galway City Harriers...10 / 14

Leevale AC...10 / 13

Carraig na bhFear AC...10 / 11

UCC AC...8 / 10

Carrick-on-Suir AC...7 / 11

Loughrea AC...7 / 11

Ballincollig AC...7 / 7

Clonliffe Harriers...6 / 8

West Limerick AC...5 / 15

Tralee Harriers...5 / 10

Crusaders AC...4 / 13

Kilnaboy AC...3 / 5

Results of the Ballycotton 10 mile road race - Sun 8th Mar 2009...

The weather forecast was more or less spot on for this one...windy with scattered showers. Certainly the wind was a factor in the first half of the race but it wasn't so bad after all. It's just as well it was from the west because we were well protected from the wind by the big hill above the village. Any showers that we did get were very light and no big deal. It could have been so much worse.

As for the race, it more or less started on time....no small feat with a field of 2,000+ runners! As far as I can see, everything seemed to go like clockwork again. There seemed to be volunteers and stewards everywhere which no doubt helps a lot. The fact they keep people moving and stop bottlenecks occuring helps a lot as well.

Results....The results are now HERE. Note that these contain the 5 mile split times as well. These are the final results and there was 2,402 finishers. This is an increase of 200 on last year and the 2nd highest of all time. (Updated...17th Mar)

Photos... (Updated 17th Mar)

1) Paudie Birmingham now has 748 photos up on his photo gallery.

a) 52 pre-race photos HERE.

b) 90 photos of the start of the race HERE.

c) 315 photos of the first half of the field with about 800 metres to go HERE.

d) 291 photos of the second half of the field with abut 800 metres to go HERE.

Paudie also has his own website with photos of other road races at http://runningpictures.blogspot.com/

2) Finishline Photography have photos of everyone finishing. You can also order copies from them. Their website is http://www.finishlinephotographs.com/index.htm

3) There are now a set of 72 photos up on the Eagle AC website.

4) There is a gallery of 41 photos up on the photo gallery of John Hennessey.

Comments?? Click on the link below...

Final post of the Ballycotton 10 week...
In this, the final post of the week, I'll look over a quick checklist and have a look at some other snippets of info.

1) Don't forget your number on Sunday! When you are rushing about on Sunday morning, it's easy to forget. Tip.....put it into your gear bag now! Remember, you should wear it on the front of your singlet/t-shirt. I know you will be wearing the timing chip but they will record your number when you finish as well just to make sure. If it's not clearly visible, you are only holding things up.

2) On the subject of timing chips, don't forget it! You should attach this to your shoe by using the cable ties supplied in the little white envelope. Do NOT use your laces to keep it on. Why? Because these chips are NOT disposable and they want them back. When you finish the race, they will have people waiting with snips to cut the cable ties and take back the chip. If you have a nice fancy knot made with your shoe laces, it kind of defeats the purpose.

3) Remember, no swapping of race numbers. If you are not going, don't give your number to someone else. You already signed a form to say that you would do this anyway. They depend on a percentage of people not turning up on the day so that the numbers are reasonable. If you have entered and can't make it on Sunday, don't forget that if you return your timing chip by post, you will be guaranteed entry for next years race. In other words, it is most likely that you will be able to avail of the same 2 week window that club runners have. You don't have to be in the first 2,500 entries.

4) Try and car pool and get there early. If you have a bike, consider bringing it.

5) No iPods, MP3 players, radios are allowed for insurance reasons.

6) Decide what are you going to do. Get changed in the Marquee and run the 800 metres to the start line or leave your gear in the baggage area by the start. Don't forget a change of warm clothes for after the race.

7) For those of you who are faster than average, stay well out of the way of the slower runners as they finish when you are walking back towards the race HQ. It's their big day as well, don't spoil it for them.

8) They will have tea in the race hq after the race. Otherwise, consider bringing a hot flask and leave it in your car for after the race. It really is going to be cold on Sunday.

9) T-shirts...if you are interested in buying one, don't forget to bring some money with you. This is what is on offer this year.......

2009 Stock.

Available in sizes S, M, L, & XL:

T-Shirt (Short Sleeve) - Yellow with large red logo €7
T-Shirt (Long Sleeve) - Red with large yellow logo €10
Zipped Sweatshirt – Dark grey with small white logo €15
Hooded sweat top – Light blue with small navy logo €15
Zipped hoodie – Black with small white logo €15
Baseball caps – Grey or pink €5

Stock to clear.

Polo shirt – Blue or cream – Limited sizes €10
T-Shirt (Short Sleeve) – White €5
T-Shirt (Long Sleeve) – Navy - Limited sizes €7

They also request that you bring the correct amount of money if you can.

10) Someone left a comment in a previous post asking about whether times would be called out. There will be someone calling out times at 1M, 2M, 8M and 9M. There will be a clock at 3M, 5M and 7M. The 10km distance is also marked on road. Needless to say, there is a clock at the finish.

That's it folks, the last post! If you have any queries, look back through the previous posts here or have a look at the FAQ list on the Ballycotton website. If you have any other questions, just click on that comment link below.

A final thanks to Tom Hartnett and John Walshe of Ballycotton Running Promotions for providing a lot of the info that I had in my posts over the last week.

And on a final, final....enjoy the big day!! Have a good one................John Desmond