Welcome to the Running in Cork blog, home of the Cork running community. This is the largest website in Cork & Munster for news on road races and general running news. Included are a current race calendar, race previews, photos, results as well as some local, national and international news items.
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Results & photos of the Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k road race...Tues 31st May 2016
A total of 845 runners turned out for this years Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k road race in Cork City on Tues 31st May 2016. Conditions were up around 20 deg C for what is one of the biggest 5k races on the calendar.
1 Mark Hanrahan 00:14:33 John Buckley Sports
2 Benjamin Thistlewood 00:15:01 Temp Reg
3 James McCarthy 00:15:08 McCarthys
36 Sinead O'Connor 00:16:54 Dept of Ed
46 Emma Murphy 00:17:13 Murphy
54 Martina Kiely 00:17:24 Dept of Ed
(Updated 4th June)...The full results can be seen HERE
Photos.....
1) There are about 500 photos on the Running in Cork Facebook page HERE
2) Derek Costello of Eagle AC has 705 photos HERE
Also remember to hang on to your race number! This will entitle you to a 20% discount off anything purchased in John Buckley Sports.
Labels:
2016,
Cork BHAA,
John Buckley Sports,
photos,
results
Results of the Whitechurch Macra 5k...Sun 29th May 2016
Roughly 100 runners and walkers turned out for this 5k run in Whitechurch on Sunday the 29th of May 2016.
1. Damian Kenneally 18:10
2. Kieran Lynch 20:23
3. Trevor Harrington 20:48
1. Valerie Wolfe
2. ???
3. ???
The full results can be seen HERE
1. Damian Kenneally 18:10
2. Kieran Lynch 20:23
3. Trevor Harrington 20:48
1. Valerie Wolfe
2. ???
3. ???
The full results can be seen HERE
Labels:
2016,
5km,
results,
Whitechurch Macra
Preview of the 2016 Cork City Marathon
Now with the Cork City Marathon coming up next Monday, have a look at these previews below to see what the various parts of the course are like.
Course Previews...If you want to see what the route for the Cork City Marathon looks like then watch this 13 minute video put together by Rob O'Farrell...(There are some minor changes for 2016 but essentially this is the route).
Previews.....
1) Marathon...HERE
2) Half-Marathon (13.1 miles)... A preview of the Half-Marathon course with maps and photos can be seen HERE
3) Marathon Relay...
a) Leg 1 of 5 can be seen HERE
b) Leg 2 of 5 can be seen HERE
c) Leg 3 of 5 can be seen HERE
d) Leg 4 of 5 can be seen HERE
e) Leg 5 of 5 can be seen HERE
Course Previews...If you want to see what the route for the Cork City Marathon looks like then watch this 13 minute video put together by Rob O'Farrell...(There are some minor changes for 2016 but essentially this is the route).
Previews.....
1) Marathon...HERE
2) Half-Marathon (13.1 miles)... A preview of the Half-Marathon course with maps and photos can be seen HERE
3) Marathon Relay...
a) Leg 1 of 5 can be seen HERE
b) Leg 2 of 5 can be seen HERE
c) Leg 3 of 5 can be seen HERE
d) Leg 4 of 5 can be seen HERE
e) Leg 5 of 5 can be seen HERE
Labels:
2016,
Cork City Marathon,
preview
John Buckley Sports 5k coming up this evening...Tues 31st May 2016
Blue skies and sunshine for this evenings BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k in Cork City... http://corkrunning.blogspot.ie/2016/05/noticecork-bhaa-john-buckley-sports-5k.html
Photo taken at 4:10pm ;o) |
Notice...Coolagown 5k road race nr Fermoy - Thurs 16th June 2016
This 5km road race in NE Cork is coming up on Thursday the 16th of June 2016...
Organised by St.Nicholas AC, the venue for the race is the small village of Coolagown which is just a few miles east of Fermoy.
From the organisers.....Coolagown is a small rural village in the north of County Cork. As its name suggests , the village has a long association with smithing. Over the years , Coolagown became famous for its horses and there are several well-known stud farms here. In recent times it has become very well known in Tidy Town circles for its relatively rapid rise in the competition and for a near-unrivalled consistency in high achievements in the upper echelons of the competition. The village has had a 7-year run of Gold Medals as well as a number of other prizes and awards including Entente Florale and Greening Communities.
The 5K run takes place in one of the prettiest villages in Ireland, a village beautifully maintained and a showpiece in how a rural community works together to achieve a wonderful result.
For anybody walking the 5k this will officially commence from the start line at 6:30pm sharp: adults are 5 euro and children are free. All adult walkers will receive a ticket for refreshments afterwards and all children will receive a ticket for a free goody bag after the walk.
Entries can also be done online via Paypal to save queuing on race night...
Details re PayPal for Coolagown 5K: When you log in to your paypal account, go to the pay or send payments then to pay for goods or services and then you will have to enter the following email: coolagowndg@gmail.com
We are checking if this email address is available from a dropdown menu. At present the above email address has to be entered. Any problems let us know.
Course Preview......You can find a full preview of the course with maps, details, photos HERE
Organised by St.Nicholas AC, the venue for the race is the small village of Coolagown which is just a few miles east of Fermoy.
From the organisers.....Coolagown is a small rural village in the north of County Cork. As its name suggests , the village has a long association with smithing. Over the years , Coolagown became famous for its horses and there are several well-known stud farms here. In recent times it has become very well known in Tidy Town circles for its relatively rapid rise in the competition and for a near-unrivalled consistency in high achievements in the upper echelons of the competition. The village has had a 7-year run of Gold Medals as well as a number of other prizes and awards including Entente Florale and Greening Communities.
The 5K run takes place in one of the prettiest villages in Ireland, a village beautifully maintained and a showpiece in how a rural community works together to achieve a wonderful result.
For anybody walking the 5k this will officially commence from the start line at 6:30pm sharp: adults are 5 euro and children are free. All adult walkers will receive a ticket for refreshments afterwards and all children will receive a ticket for a free goody bag after the walk.
Entries can also be done online via Paypal to save queuing on race night...
Details re PayPal for Coolagown 5K: When you log in to your paypal account, go to the pay or send payments then to pay for goods or services and then you will have to enter the following email: coolagowndg@gmail.com
We are checking if this email address is available from a dropdown menu. At present the above email address has to be entered. Any problems let us know.
Course Preview......You can find a full preview of the course with maps, details, photos HERE
Monday, May 30, 2016
Results of the Watergrasshill AC 5k fun run...Sun 29th May 2015
This 5k fun run organised by Watergrasshill AC attracted a field of 92 runners.
1 Bryan Crowley 17.45
2 Aaron Hornibrook 19.11
3 David Yelverton 19.39
5 Jennifer Goggin Walsh 20.07
18 Betty Cahill 24.09
20 Ciara Keohane 24.44
The full results can be seen HERE
1 Bryan Crowley 17.45
2 Aaron Hornibrook 19.11
3 David Yelverton 19.39
5 Jennifer Goggin Walsh 20.07
18 Betty Cahill 24.09
20 Ciara Keohane 24.44
The full results can be seen HERE
Labels:
2016,
5km,
results,
Watergrasshill
Reminder...Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k coming up on Tues 31st May 2016
Just a reminder for the Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k in Cork City on Tues 31st May 2016. This is one of the fastest 5k courses in Cork and always attracts a huge crowd. The entry fee will also get you 20% off all products in John Buckley Sports.
More info incl maps, photos & updated preview in this previous post.
Just one point of interest. There is a slight change on the course this year in that the finish line will be near the start line. i.e. You do two loops and then finish just beyond where the race started.
The course was recently remeasured so it's spot on. One point though. It was measured on the road! If you run on the footpath then you're taking a short cut and cheating.
Labels:
5km,
Cork BHAA,
John Buckley Sports
Closer look at the 2016 Cork City Half-Marathon
With only a few days to go, it's time to have a closer look at the route for the Cork City Half-Marathon next Monday the 6th of June.
The route starts near Kennedy Park, about 800m from the City Hall. From there, the runners will take in a small loop by Albert Road before heading down Monahan Road to the Atlantic Pond. Around the 1.9 mile mark, the course will merge with the full marathon course.
Timing.....One important issue is of course the start times and when the two fields will merge. The half starts at 10:45am while the full starts at 9am. The fields will merge at roughly the 2 mile mark for the half and the 15 mile mark for the full.
The times below show the two fields merging. Note that this is based on both races starting exactly on time.
6 min per mile...1:18 half-marathon < > 7:48 min per mile...3:24 full marathon
7 min per mile...1:32 half-marathon < > 7:56 min per mile...3:28 full marathon
8 min per mile...1:45 half-marathon < > 8:04 min per mile...3:31 full marathon
9 min per mile...1:58 half-marathon < > 8:12 min per mile...3:35 full marathon
10 min per mile...2:11 half-marathon < > 8:20 min per mile...3:38 full marathon
Scenarios.......(if the races start on time!)
a) If you are doing a fast half marathon...say sub 1:30...then you are going to come out ahead of most of the marathon runners. You should have a pretty clear route for the rest of the race.
b) If you are doing say a 1:45 half then you will merge with runners in the marathon doing roughly the same pace.
c) If you are doing say a 2 hour plus half then you will be still ahead of most of the marathon field but they will be running much faster than you.
d) If you are doing the full marathon and are targeting say 3:45 or slower then you will have a lot of half-marathon runners ahead of you.
While the Marina itself is narrow enough for the two to merge, there should be plenty of room on the Centre Park Road and the South Link Road for the fields to thin out.
Preview.......The full preview of the Half-Marathon course can be seen HERE
Labels:
2016,
Cork City Half Marathon
New page listing clubs and running groups
Over the course of a year, I get a lot of e-mails and messages asking for advice on clubs to join and people asking if there is anything in their area. I have now put together a page listing most of the athletic clubs and running groups in Cork.
https://corkrunning.blogspot.ie/p/clubs-groups.html
Course announced for the new Ballincollig 5k parkrun
There will be a new 5km parkrun starting the Ballincollig Regional Park on Saturday the 18th of June. With the cancellation of the weekly parkrun in Tramore Valley Park in Cork City, this one should prove to be very popular.
When it was first announced, there was some debate about parking and what the route might be? Well, this is it...
As you can see, it's not starting from the West end or the East end of the park but rather in the middle where the allotments are located. The course goes clockwise and consists of two loops.
Parking is available in the Lidl car park as well near the local school and church.
The course is very flat and level so it should be a fast one!
Labels:
5km,
Ballincollig Regional Park,
Parkrun
Saturday, May 28, 2016
Notice...Glanmire GAA 4 mile road race - Wed 15th June 2016
This 4 mile road race is coming up on Wednesday the 15th of June in Glanmire near Cork City.
Located just to the north-east of Cork City, it is within easy access for a lot of people. For anyone coming off the M8 motorway, just take exit 18.
Race entries will be taken at Glanmire GAA club which is right alongside the main road in Sallybrook...
The 4 mile route takes in a loop to the east of Glanmire. Both the start and finish points are only a short distance from the GAA grounds.
From the organisers...Brief Synopsis of Route....The route will begin at, the Brook Inn Glanmire and will continue along the main road west to Riverstown Cross (R639). Runners will then turn left and head towards the Sars pavilion and turn right to follow the old “New Line” road (Marwood Avenue). At the end of this road they will turn right onto the “New Line road” (Copper Valley Vue) and continue up to “Toby Burkes Cross”. The route will then turn left up the hill where it meets the Knochraha/Blosomgrove road and then turns left and heads back down to meet “New Line” road at the junction with O Connell Transport offices (Caseys Cross). The route turns right and heads to the roundabout at Brooklodge where the runners will keep to the right of said roundabout,(The runners will then keep to the right hand side of the road until the completion of the race). and continue to Hazelwood Cross.
All proceeds are going to the local suicide awareness group 'SAFE'
Pre-entry......If you want to pre-enter this race then you can do so HERE.
(There are dry fit t-shirts for the first 200 to register)
Update...Tues 14th June... So far approximately 150 registrations have come in so there are about 50 dry fit tops left. Registrations will also be taken at the Glanmire GAA grounds in Sallybrook (the Pike) (Tues) 6-8pm and again on Wed night before the race
Preview.....A full preview of the course with maps and photos can be seen HERE
The race is sponsored by Source Fitness who are based in Silversprings in Tivoli.
From the Sponsor....Source Health & Fitness is one of the largest fitness centres in Munster and possesses a vast array of facilities. We have classes & activities to suit each individual need and fitness level. Classes include; Spinning, Aqua, Zumba, Circuits, Bootcamp, Yoga, Pilates, Metafit, BLTP, Sculpt & Tone, Toning, Abs, Line Dancing.
We pride ourselves on having the experience required to deliver top class instruction on all aspects of fitness. We believe we have something for all fitness levels and pride ourselves on being a professional and friendly centre where our member’s needs are our top priority. You will always get a good workout, no matter when you train!
http://www.sourcehealthandfitness.com/
Located just to the north-east of Cork City, it is within easy access for a lot of people. For anyone coming off the M8 motorway, just take exit 18.
Race entries will be taken at Glanmire GAA club which is right alongside the main road in Sallybrook...
The 4 mile route takes in a loop to the east of Glanmire. Both the start and finish points are only a short distance from the GAA grounds.
From the organisers...Brief Synopsis of Route....The route will begin at, the Brook Inn Glanmire and will continue along the main road west to Riverstown Cross (R639). Runners will then turn left and head towards the Sars pavilion and turn right to follow the old “New Line” road (Marwood Avenue). At the end of this road they will turn right onto the “New Line road” (Copper Valley Vue) and continue up to “Toby Burkes Cross”. The route will then turn left up the hill where it meets the Knochraha/Blosomgrove road and then turns left and heads back down to meet “New Line” road at the junction with O Connell Transport offices (Caseys Cross). The route turns right and heads to the roundabout at Brooklodge where the runners will keep to the right of said roundabout,(The runners will then keep to the right hand side of the road until the completion of the race). and continue to Hazelwood Cross.
All proceeds are going to the local suicide awareness group 'SAFE'
Pre-entry......If you want to pre-enter this race then you can do so HERE.
(There are dry fit t-shirts for the first 200 to register)
Update...Tues 14th June... So far approximately 150 registrations have come in so there are about 50 dry fit tops left. Registrations will also be taken at the Glanmire GAA grounds in Sallybrook (the Pike) (Tues) 6-8pm and again on Wed night before the race
Preview.....A full preview of the course with maps and photos can be seen HERE
The race is sponsored by Source Fitness who are based in Silversprings in Tivoli.
We pride ourselves on having the experience required to deliver top class instruction on all aspects of fitness. We believe we have something for all fitness levels and pride ourselves on being a professional and friendly centre where our member’s needs are our top priority. You will always get a good workout, no matter when you train!
http://www.sourcehealthandfitness.com/
Labels:
2016,
4 mile,
Glanmire GAA,
Road Race
Notice...East Ferry 5 mile road race in East Cork - Fri 10th June 2016
In terms of race courses, this must be one of the nicest in Cork. Located just south of Midleton in East Cork, this is just a short drive from Cork City.
I've used this area for training runs in the past and it really is a lovely location. I think a lot of people drive south of Midleton on the road to Whitegate unaware of what a stunning spot East Ferry is. On a sunny summers evening, there is no better spot for a race.
The race HQ is at the local national school. It has an Athletics Ireland permit and has been measured properly by Jones Counter. After the race, there will be the usual refreshments.
This year, they will have chip timing and unfortunately due to insurance restrictions, it's over 16's only
Preview......Have a look at the preview for the course... http://munsterraceroutes.blogspot.ie/2013/01/cork098.html
You'll get a good idea from the photos of what a nice location it is.
I've used this area for training runs in the past and it really is a lovely location. I think a lot of people drive south of Midleton on the road to Whitegate unaware of what a stunning spot East Ferry is. On a sunny summers evening, there is no better spot for a race.
The race HQ is at the local national school. It has an Athletics Ireland permit and has been measured properly by Jones Counter. After the race, there will be the usual refreshments.
This year, they will have chip timing and unfortunately due to insurance restrictions, it's over 16's only
Preview......Have a look at the preview for the course... http://munsterraceroutes.blogspot.ie/2013/01/cork098.html
You'll get a good idea from the photos of what a nice location it is.
Labels:
2016,
5 mile,
East Ferry
Notice...Dunmanway 10k road race in West Cork - Sun 19th June 2016
This 10k road race is coming up in Dunmanway in the heart of West Cork on Sunday, the 19th of June 2016 at 11am. This is one of the largest races in the region and has also been voted the best 10k race in Cork in the past.
Considering the number of runners within the immediate catchment area and the fact that it's only a 45-50 minute drive from Cork City, the organisers hope that this year's race will be as successful as previous years.
You can pre-register by entering online HERE.
Info on the race website...http://www.dunmanway10k.com/
Preview......A full preview of the course with photos, maps and directions can be seen HERE
Friday, May 27, 2016
Results of the Ballyandreen 5 mile road race...Thurs 26th May 2016
A total of 622 runners turned out for this years Ballyandreen 5 mile road race, the first of four in the 2016 Ballycotton Summer Series. That is the second highest number ever and just 32 shy of the record.
In terms of AAI clubs taking part, these were the main ones...Midleton AC 70, Ballintotis Fit4Life 46, Eagle AC 29, Ballymore-Cobh AC 22, Mallow AC 21, Watergrasshill AC 20, Youghal AC 19, St.Finbarr's AC 18, East Cork AC 16, St.Catherines AC 14, Carrigtwohill AC 12 & St.Nicholas AC 10.
The chart above shows the total number per year plus the numbers breaking 30 mins, 35 mins and 40 mins.
1 0:24:46 HARTY, Michael East Cork AC M 04:57.1
2 0:26:51 MCGRATH, Sean East Cork AC M 05:22.1
3 0:27:09 CORBETT, Michael St. Finbarrs AC M40 05:25.7
22 0:29:10 COOKE, Aoife Youghal AC F 05:49.9
53 0:31:21 SANTRY, Fiona East Cork AC F 06:16.1
55 0:31:33 MACKEOWN, Rosaleen Leevale AC F40 06:18.5
The full results can be seen HERE
Photos...
1) Jonathan Kenneally of Eagle AC has a large gallery HERE
Aoife Cooke of Youghal AC...First woman home |
Michael Harty of East Cork AC takes an early lead. Photo : Jonathan Kenneally |
Start of the race...
Labels:
2016,
5 mile,
Ballyandreen,
Ballycotton Summer Series,
results
Thursday, May 26, 2016
An Irishman Abroad interview with Rob Heffernan
In this podcast, Jarlath Regan catches up with Rob Heffernan as he prepares for this 5th Olympics in Rio....
.......(Adverts from 30:00 to 34:00 if you want to skip those)
.......(Adverts from 30:00 to 34:00 if you want to skip those)
Labels:
An Irishman Abroad,
Rob Heffernan
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Is there a problem with rubbish at road races???
Someone left this message recently...
"Interesting letter on page 31 of the Sunday independent. It should be highlighted and if the letter was over the top it should be said it was over the top. I've no idea if this happens after our road races in Cork but the letter most certainly says it does."
This is the letter...
Now before we circle the wagons and dismiss everything Maurice Fitzgerald has said, let's look at it in more detail.
'Our countryside and cities are being destroyed by marathons and road races and the huge amounts of litter they leave behind'.... Really?? For most road races that are 10kms or less, they don't hand out any water out on the course. Any cups or bottles of water that are given up at the finish line will usually be cleared away and there is no sign afterwards that a race was even held.
'Many runners think the rules regarding litter disposal are suspended when a race is going on, that laws regarding the disposal of rubbish are neither here nor there, as they unashamedly throw their rubbish on the ground for others to pick up'....'Paper and plastic cups are also part of the rubbish of runners who throw them on the ground at will'........Anyone involved in road races will know that's it's impossible to run with a cup of water. You grab a cup...get one or two gulps at most....and then drop it on the ground. All this happens within 50 metres of the water station. The runners know this, the organisers know this. The cups are then picked up once the race has passed. Done properly, there is usually no sign that there was even a water station at that location.
As can be seen above, some of Maurice Fitzgerald's comments are ill informed and he's on a bit of a rant.
However, he does in his defense make one valid point....'Water bottle after water bottle can be seen thrown all over when the race is over'.
The thing about water bottles is that they can be carried and they may be disposed of anywhere. While pacing the Dingle marathon, I've seen plastic bottles hurled into fields which I'm sure delighted the local farmers. In the Clonakilty Marathon, I've seen bottles being flung into the woods and I'd be pretty sure that they are still there to this day. 95% of runners might be responsible and drop off the empty bottle at the next water station but the irresponsible 5% can create a right mess.
Another issue is that of the race or event organiser. Are they all responsible? Will they go out and try to pick up any rubbish left behind?
And if water bottles are top of the list in terms of rubbish then energy gels wrappers are definitely second.
So does Maurice Fitzgerald have some valid points? Do you agree with all of it?...part of it?...or none of it? Should race organisers be held more accountable for any rubbish that is generated?
Click on the Comment link below.
"Interesting letter on page 31 of the Sunday independent. It should be highlighted and if the letter was over the top it should be said it was over the top. I've no idea if this happens after our road races in Cork but the letter most certainly says it does."
This is the letter...
Now before we circle the wagons and dismiss everything Maurice Fitzgerald has said, let's look at it in more detail.
'Our countryside and cities are being destroyed by marathons and road races and the huge amounts of litter they leave behind'.... Really?? For most road races that are 10kms or less, they don't hand out any water out on the course. Any cups or bottles of water that are given up at the finish line will usually be cleared away and there is no sign afterwards that a race was even held.
'Many runners think the rules regarding litter disposal are suspended when a race is going on, that laws regarding the disposal of rubbish are neither here nor there, as they unashamedly throw their rubbish on the ground for others to pick up'....'Paper and plastic cups are also part of the rubbish of runners who throw them on the ground at will'........Anyone involved in road races will know that's it's impossible to run with a cup of water. You grab a cup...get one or two gulps at most....and then drop it on the ground. All this happens within 50 metres of the water station. The runners know this, the organisers know this. The cups are then picked up once the race has passed. Done properly, there is usually no sign that there was even a water station at that location.
As can be seen above, some of Maurice Fitzgerald's comments are ill informed and he's on a bit of a rant.
However, he does in his defense make one valid point....'Water bottle after water bottle can be seen thrown all over when the race is over'.
The thing about water bottles is that they can be carried and they may be disposed of anywhere. While pacing the Dingle marathon, I've seen plastic bottles hurled into fields which I'm sure delighted the local farmers. In the Clonakilty Marathon, I've seen bottles being flung into the woods and I'd be pretty sure that they are still there to this day. 95% of runners might be responsible and drop off the empty bottle at the next water station but the irresponsible 5% can create a right mess.
Another issue is that of the race or event organiser. Are they all responsible? Will they go out and try to pick up any rubbish left behind?
And if water bottles are top of the list in terms of rubbish then energy gels wrappers are definitely second.
So does Maurice Fitzgerald have some valid points? Do you agree with all of it?...part of it?...or none of it? Should race organisers be held more accountable for any rubbish that is generated?
Click on the Comment link below.
Labels:
litter,
marathon,
road races,
rubbish
Liam O'Brien & The Ballyandreen '5'
Anonymous article by a well informed source ;o) .......
He will be there as usual on Thursday night, taking entries and inputting them into the laptop. Making sure the results are correct. And at the CIT the following night for the Graded Leagues, he will again oversee operations. Just as he did last Saturday and the two previous weeks at the Munster Schools T&F. And then there’s the Cork City Sports on June 28th. For a man who achieved so much, all the way to an Olympic semi-final, he now gives back equally if not more to the sport that has been enriched by his involvement for close on half a century. In case you didn’t know (and he won’t tell you), the
following are his achievements in this particular race.
LIAM O’BRIEN & THE BALLYANDREEN ‘5’
1981: 24:25 First
1982: 24:19 First
1983: 24:24 First
1984: 24:36 First
1985: 24:28 First
1986: 24:21 First
1987: 24:17 First
1988: 24:13 First
1989: 24:23 First
1990: 24:15 First
1991: 24:23 First
1992: 24:26 First
1993: 24:14 First
1994: 24:00 (course record) First
1995: 25:15 (M40 course rec) First
1996: DNF
1997: 25:17 First
1998: 25:49 Third
Total number of Summer Series 5-mile races ran by Liam from 1977 to 1998: 67
Total number won: 59
(Photo source : Gearóid Ó Laoi)
He will be there as usual on Thursday night, taking entries and inputting them into the laptop. Making sure the results are correct. And at the CIT the following night for the Graded Leagues, he will again oversee operations. Just as he did last Saturday and the two previous weeks at the Munster Schools T&F. And then there’s the Cork City Sports on June 28th. For a man who achieved so much, all the way to an Olympic semi-final, he now gives back equally if not more to the sport that has been enriched by his involvement for close on half a century. In case you didn’t know (and he won’t tell you), the
following are his achievements in this particular race.
LIAM O’BRIEN & THE BALLYANDREEN ‘5’
1981: 24:25 First
1982: 24:19 First
1983: 24:24 First
1984: 24:36 First
1985: 24:28 First
1986: 24:21 First
1987: 24:17 First
1988: 24:13 First
1989: 24:23 First
1990: 24:15 First
1991: 24:23 First
1992: 24:26 First
1993: 24:14 First
1994: 24:00 (course record) First
1995: 25:15 (M40 course rec) First
1996: DNF
1997: 25:17 First
1998: 25:49 Third
Total number of Summer Series 5-mile races ran by Liam from 1977 to 1998: 67
Total number won: 59
(Photo source : Gearóid Ó Laoi)
Labels:
Ballyandreen,
East Cork AC,
Liam O'Brien
Notice...Ballyandreen 5 mile road race - Thurs 26th May 2016
The Ballycotton 5 mile Summer Series starts at 8pm on Thursday evening with the Ballyandreen 5 mile road race in East Cork. This is the first of the 4 races in the series and there is a special plaque for anyone who goes on to complete all 4 races. In addition, there are Top finisher T-shirts for the top 50 men and top 30 women in the series when it concludes in August.
Location / Getting there......this piece is for the new runners. Ballyandreen is located a few kms to the west of Ballycotton. If you don't know that area then follow these directions...
Take the main road to Ballycotton in East Cork. It is well signposted from Midleton. Just as you enter the village, you will see an old church on your right....
Take the right here and drive up the hill. Keep going for about 2 kms and you will get to a crossroads where you will be directed to a parking area by the race stewards. It's very simple, you can't get lost.
Entry.......
1) The entry fee is €5. Try and bring the exact amount as it helps speed things up.
2) If you are new, they will need a few details from you like your age, club or area where you live, etc.
3) The location for entries is in a small yard just off the road. Depending on which field they use for parking, this can be 300-600 metres from the parking area.
Time.......The thing about Ballyandreen is that things are spread out a bit. Depending on which field they use on the night, parking can be 300-600 metres from the registration point and it's about another 200 metres down to the start line.
The best option and the one that would really help the organisers would be to arrive early....say before 7pm. You have loads of time then to wander down to enter...head back up to your car.....get changed.....and then head down to the start line.
Where people get caught every year is that they arrive at say 7:20-7:30......it takes about 8 minutes to walk down to the registration point.......big queue.......then they are in a mad rush to get back up to the car, get changed and get back down to the start on time.
So get there early or if you can't help arriving late, then get changed beforehand and jog down to the registration with the €5 entry fee in your hand.
Course...........The start point is near the registration point. The initial half mile has a good bit of uphill running it with a downhill section near the 1 mile mark. After that it's not too bad although there is a very steep downhill section near the 2 mile mark, almost too steep to really run on properly. Then it's out onto the main road and head west towards the 3 mile mark. The 4th mile is without doubt the hardest. There is a bit of a drag just after the 3 mile mark but you are soon running downhill again.
However, just after 3.5 miles, you take a sharp left and the 'Beast of Ballyandreen' welcomes you!!
It basically is a 500 metre slog up a tough 'little' hill. You'll be glad to see the 4 mile mark because after that, the last mile is a complete contrast. After an initial flat stage, you soon start running downhill, through the crossroads, past where the race started and all the ways towards the finish near the coast for what will probably be your fastest mile.
Overall........A 5 mile road race in the quiet countryside of East Cork. If the term classic applies, then this is it.
Additional info from the organisers....
BALLYANDREEN ‘5’ – Thursday night
Entries for Thursday night’s Ballyandreen ‘5’ mile road race will be taken in Market Green Shopping Centre, Midleton, (same place as the recent Midleton race) on tomorrow (Wednesday) night from 6pm to 7.30pm.
Entry fee is €5 and people can collect their number when they enter which will facilitate both runners and organisers as it is expected to be extremely busy on race night.
On Thursday evening, entries will be taken as usual in Ballyandreen from 6pm onwards and once again runners are urged to arrive as early as possible. Also, if possible, to have the correct fee (€5) which helps to speed things up.
Parking will be in the usual farmers’ field which will be signposted. As cattle will be using this field in the days after the race, we would ask that people don’t leave any rubbish (water bottles, etc) when they leave. For the same reason, we would appreciate if other events would not distribute flyers on car windscreens as they can also be a nuisance to collect afterwards.
- Ballycotton Running Promotions
Location / Getting there......this piece is for the new runners. Ballyandreen is located a few kms to the west of Ballycotton. If you don't know that area then follow these directions...
Take the main road to Ballycotton in East Cork. It is well signposted from Midleton. Just as you enter the village, you will see an old church on your right....
Take the right here and drive up the hill. Keep going for about 2 kms and you will get to a crossroads where you will be directed to a parking area by the race stewards. It's very simple, you can't get lost.
Entry.......
1) The entry fee is €5. Try and bring the exact amount as it helps speed things up.
2) If you are new, they will need a few details from you like your age, club or area where you live, etc.
3) The location for entries is in a small yard just off the road. Depending on which field they use for parking, this can be 300-600 metres from the parking area.
Time.......The thing about Ballyandreen is that things are spread out a bit. Depending on which field they use on the night, parking can be 300-600 metres from the registration point and it's about another 200 metres down to the start line.
The best option and the one that would really help the organisers would be to arrive early....say before 7pm. You have loads of time then to wander down to enter...head back up to your car.....get changed.....and then head down to the start line.
Where people get caught every year is that they arrive at say 7:20-7:30......it takes about 8 minutes to walk down to the registration point.......big queue.......then they are in a mad rush to get back up to the car, get changed and get back down to the start on time.
So get there early or if you can't help arriving late, then get changed beforehand and jog down to the registration with the €5 entry fee in your hand.
Course...........The start point is near the registration point. The initial half mile has a good bit of uphill running it with a downhill section near the 1 mile mark. After that it's not too bad although there is a very steep downhill section near the 2 mile mark, almost too steep to really run on properly. Then it's out onto the main road and head west towards the 3 mile mark. The 4th mile is without doubt the hardest. There is a bit of a drag just after the 3 mile mark but you are soon running downhill again.
However, just after 3.5 miles, you take a sharp left and the 'Beast of Ballyandreen' welcomes you!!
Panoramic view from the top of the 'Beast'....high above the valley floor....
...although at this stage, you'll probably be half-dead and unlikely to notice
It basically is a 500 metre slog up a tough 'little' hill. You'll be glad to see the 4 mile mark because after that, the last mile is a complete contrast. After an initial flat stage, you soon start running downhill, through the crossroads, past where the race started and all the ways towards the finish near the coast for what will probably be your fastest mile.
Overall........A 5 mile road race in the quiet countryside of East Cork. If the term classic applies, then this is it.
Additional info from the organisers....
BALLYANDREEN ‘5’ – Thursday night
Entries for Thursday night’s Ballyandreen ‘5’ mile road race will be taken in Market Green Shopping Centre, Midleton, (same place as the recent Midleton race) on tomorrow (Wednesday) night from 6pm to 7.30pm.
Entry fee is €5 and people can collect their number when they enter which will facilitate both runners and organisers as it is expected to be extremely busy on race night.
On Thursday evening, entries will be taken as usual in Ballyandreen from 6pm onwards and once again runners are urged to arrive as early as possible. Also, if possible, to have the correct fee (€5) which helps to speed things up.
Parking will be in the usual farmers’ field which will be signposted. As cattle will be using this field in the days after the race, we would ask that people don’t leave any rubbish (water bottles, etc) when they leave. For the same reason, we would appreciate if other events would not distribute flyers on car windscreens as they can also be a nuisance to collect afterwards.
- Ballycotton Running Promotions
Labels:
5 miles,
Ballyandreen,
Ballycotton Summer Series
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
Details of the Ballycotton Summer Series...May to Aug 2016
The Ballycotton Summer Series is the oldest road race series in the country and it's hugely popular every year. The dates and times are always the same...4th Thursday of every month from May to August....Starts at 8pm except for the last one which is 7:30pm. The top 50 men and top 30 women in the series get finishers t-shirts.
Every race usually gets around 500 runners so it's advisable to get to each one well before the start time. This map shows the locations of each race...
Previews of each course......
1) Ballyandreen 5m...(May)...HERE
2) Shanagarry 5m...(June)...HERE
3) Churchtown South 5m...(July)...HERE
4) Ballycotton 5m...(August)...HERE
Every race usually gets around 500 runners so it's advisable to get to each one well before the start time. This map shows the locations of each race...
Previews of each course......
1) Ballyandreen 5m...(May)...HERE
2) Shanagarry 5m...(June)...HERE
3) Churchtown South 5m...(July)...HERE
4) Ballycotton 5m...(August)...HERE
Labels:
2016,
Ballycotton Summer Series
Monday, May 23, 2016
Irish Marathon Teams announced for Rio Olympics
It has just been announced that the following athletes will represent Ireland in the Marathon at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.
Women: Lizzie Lee, Fionnuala McCormack, Breege Connolly.
1st Reserve: Gladys Ganiel (North Belfast AC)
2nd Reserve: Barbara Sanchez (Clonliffe Harriers AC)
Men: Kevin Seaward, Mick Clohisey, Paul Pollock (Sergiu Ciobanu loses out).
1st Reserve: Sergiu Ciobanu (Clonliffe Harriers AC)
2nd Reserve: Sean Hehir (Rathfarnham WSAF)
Team have also been selected for the European Championships Half Marathon which will take place in Amsterdam in July. Both Mark Hanrahan and Claire McCarthy from Cork have both been picked.
MEN'S HALF MARATHON
Sergiu Ciobanu Clonliffe Harriers AC
Mick Clohisey Raheny Shamrocks AC
Mark Hanrahan Leevale AC
Gary Murray Clonliffe Harriers AC
Paul Pollock Annadale Striders AC
Kevin Seaward St Malachy's AC
WOMEN'S HALF MARATHON
Breege Connolly North Belfast AC
Gladys Ganiel North Belfast AC
Maria McCambridge Dundrum South Dublin AC
Claire McCarthy Leevale AC
Addendum...
Irish Times article on the selection
Coach Jerry Kiernan lashes out at selection decision
Women: Lizzie Lee, Fionnuala McCormack, Breege Connolly.
1st Reserve: Gladys Ganiel (North Belfast AC)
2nd Reserve: Barbara Sanchez (Clonliffe Harriers AC)
Men: Kevin Seaward, Mick Clohisey, Paul Pollock (Sergiu Ciobanu loses out).
1st Reserve: Sergiu Ciobanu (Clonliffe Harriers AC)
2nd Reserve: Sean Hehir (Rathfarnham WSAF)
Lizzie Lee of Leevale AC..now heading to the Olympics in Rio |
Team have also been selected for the European Championships Half Marathon which will take place in Amsterdam in July. Both Mark Hanrahan and Claire McCarthy from Cork have both been picked.
MEN'S HALF MARATHON
Sergiu Ciobanu Clonliffe Harriers AC
Mick Clohisey Raheny Shamrocks AC
Mark Hanrahan Leevale AC
Gary Murray Clonliffe Harriers AC
Paul Pollock Annadale Striders AC
Kevin Seaward St Malachy's AC
WOMEN'S HALF MARATHON
Breege Connolly North Belfast AC
Gladys Ganiel North Belfast AC
Maria McCambridge Dundrum South Dublin AC
Claire McCarthy Leevale AC
Claire McCarthy & Mark Hanrahan...selected for the European Championships |
Addendum...
Irish Times article on the selection
Coach Jerry Kiernan lashes out at selection decision
Labels:
Lizzie Lee
Notice...Millstreet 5 mile road race - Fri 24th June 2016
The Willie Neenan Memorial 5 mile road race is coming up in the town of Millstreet in NW Cork on Friday, the 24th of June at 8:15pm.
It's an area of the county where there isn't a huge number of races so it should be of interest to runners in both Cork and Kerry.
For the last two years, this was a 10k race but this year it changes to a much faster 5 mile course. When it was a 10k race, the race had a height difference of about 60 metres between the highest and lowest points on the course. With the new 5 mile route, that's down to about 25 metres.
The entry fee is €12 if you pre-enter online HERE. You can also enter on the day for €15. Race HQ is the GAA community hall which is directly across from the church at the western end of the town.
Organised by Millstreet AC, the course has been accurately measured by Jones Counter and has an Athletics Ireland licence.
Course Preview........A full preview of the course with maps, directions, photos, etc can be seen HERE
For the last two years, this was a 10k race but this year it changes to a much faster 5 mile course. When it was a 10k race, the race had a height difference of about 60 metres between the highest and lowest points on the course. With the new 5 mile route, that's down to about 25 metres.
The entry fee is €12 if you pre-enter online HERE. You can also enter on the day for €15. Race HQ is the GAA community hall which is directly across from the church at the western end of the town.
Course Preview........A full preview of the course with maps, directions, photos, etc can be seen HERE
Labels:
2016,
5 mile,
Millstreet,
Willie Neenan
Notice...Courtmacsherry - Timoleague 10k road race - Fri 24th June 2016
This 10 km road race in West Cork is coming up on Friday the 24th of June 2016 at 8pm. In terms of flat fast 10k courses, this is about as fast as they get.
The race starts in the seaside town of Courtmacsherry, then follows the estuary road to Timoleague before doing a small loop and returning to Courtmacsherry again.
On a nice summers evening, it's a great spot for a race. Located just to the south of Bandon, it's well within the catchment area of a lot of runners including those in Cork City.
The entry fee is €15 and you can enter online HERE. On the Friday evening, entries will be in Courtmacsherry Hotel.
From the organisers......
Annual Courtmacsherry-Timoleague 10km Road Race (Athletics Ireland Licensed Event)
Officially measured, chip timed flat and fast coarse just 45 minutes from Cork city. The course runs along side the beautiful Courtmacsherry bay and if you want to set a personal best this is the course to do it on.
Prizes For Men, Women
Men & Women Over 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60,
Wheelchair Athlete and Team (4 to count)
Main Prizes:
Overall Men & Women 1st Place €100, 2nd Place €50, 3rd Place €30.
€100 bonus to winners if course record is broken.
Men: 31.38 Women: 35.25
Register online or on the day at Courtmacsherry Hotel 5.30-7:30pm.
Entry €15
email ct10k@yahoo.com for more info.
Followed by refreshments and BBQ.
Preview......A full preview of the race with maps, directions, photos, etc can be seen HERE
The race starts in the seaside town of Courtmacsherry, then follows the estuary road to Timoleague before doing a small loop and returning to Courtmacsherry again.
On a nice summers evening, it's a great spot for a race. Located just to the south of Bandon, it's well within the catchment area of a lot of runners including those in Cork City.
The entry fee is €15 and you can enter online HERE. On the Friday evening, entries will be in Courtmacsherry Hotel.
From the organisers......
Annual Courtmacsherry-Timoleague 10km Road Race (Athletics Ireland Licensed Event)
Officially measured, chip timed flat and fast coarse just 45 minutes from Cork city. The course runs along side the beautiful Courtmacsherry bay and if you want to set a personal best this is the course to do it on.
Prizes For Men, Women
Men & Women Over 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60,
Wheelchair Athlete and Team (4 to count)
Main Prizes:
Overall Men & Women 1st Place €100, 2nd Place €50, 3rd Place €30.
€100 bonus to winners if course record is broken.
Men: 31.38 Women: 35.25
Register online or on the day at Courtmacsherry Hotel 5.30-7:30pm.
Entry €15
email ct10k@yahoo.com for more info.
Followed by refreshments and BBQ.
Preview......A full preview of the race with maps, directions, photos, etc can be seen HERE
Labels:
10km,
Courtmacsherry,
Road Race,
Timoleague,
West Cork
Sunday, May 22, 2016
Results of the Freemount Macra 4 mile fun run...Sun 22nd May 2016
Just 21 turned out for this 4 mile fun run in Freemount in N.Cork in what was described by the organisers as 'wet and windy conditions'.
1. Sean Twohig 24’37
2. John Collins 25’01
3. Carol Finn 25’34
4. Liam Buckley 25’50
5. David O’Connor 26’45
6. Pa Cronin 29’46
7. Claire Heffernen 30’57
8. Eileen Heffernan 31’09
9. Michael Hedigan 31’09
10. Jerry Hannon 32’29
11. David O’Brien 33’11
12. Humphrey Hickey 34’38
13. Maura O’Kelly 35’00
14. Adrian Curtin 37’27
15. Bernard Cassidy 38’05
16. Pat Conory 38’05
17. Mary Anne Murphy 38’45
18. Niall Flahive 39’07
19. Majella Buckley 49’36
20. Kay Miller 49’44
21. Claire Withers 49’44
1. Sean Twohig 24’37
2. John Collins 25’01
3. Carol Finn 25’34
4. Liam Buckley 25’50
5. David O’Connor 26’45
6. Pa Cronin 29’46
7. Claire Heffernen 30’57
8. Eileen Heffernan 31’09
9. Michael Hedigan 31’09
10. Jerry Hannon 32’29
11. David O’Brien 33’11
12. Humphrey Hickey 34’38
13. Maura O’Kelly 35’00
14. Adrian Curtin 37’27
15. Bernard Cassidy 38’05
16. Pat Conory 38’05
17. Mary Anne Murphy 38’45
18. Niall Flahive 39’07
19. Majella Buckley 49’36
20. Kay Miller 49’44
21. Claire Withers 49’44
Labels:
2016,
4 mile,
Freemount Macra,
results
Results of the Emer Casey 10k road race in Youghal...Sun 22nd May 2016
A large crowd of 428 runners turned out for this years Emer Casey 10k road race in Youghal on Sunday the 22nd of May 2016.
1 Eric CURRAN M Leevale AC 00:32:29
2 Danny SMITH M Ballynonty AC 00:33:13
3 Tony KELLEHER M45 Togher AC 00:33:49
12 Aoife COOKE F Youghal AC 00:35:39
23 Evelyn CASHMAN F45 Youghal AC 00:39:54
29 Mary SWEENEY F55 St. Finbarrs AC 00:40:19
The full results can be seen HERE
1 Eric CURRAN M Leevale AC 00:32:29
2 Danny SMITH M Ballynonty AC 00:33:13
3 Tony KELLEHER M45 Togher AC 00:33:49
12 Aoife COOKE F Youghal AC 00:35:39
23 Evelyn CASHMAN F45 Youghal AC 00:39:54
29 Mary SWEENEY F55 St. Finbarrs AC 00:40:19
The full results can be seen HERE
Labels:
10km,
2016,
Emer Casey Foundation,
results,
Youghal
Video clip on the current Javelin World Champion Julius Yego from Kenya
Julius Yego from Kenya is the current World Champion in the Javelin. In a country that is associated with distance running, he started out without a coach and watched video clips on YouTube to improve his technique. In 2015, he became the World Champion.
Go Pro have just released this video clip...
Go Pro have just released this video clip...
Labels:
Javelin,
Julius Yego,
Kenya,
World Champion
Saturday, May 21, 2016
Prizewinners in the Leap 5k fun run/walk on Mon 2nd May 2016
Results of Leap 5k fun run/walk in West Cork...Mon 2nd May 2016...Leap Let's Get Lively
1st Adult Male - Donnie O'Donovan 21:47
2nd Adult Male - Andrew O'Donovan 24:53
3rd Adult Male - Garoid White 28:30
1st Adult Female - Mary O'Donovan 26:05
2nd Adult Female - Thomasena Stout 26:34
3rd Adult Female - Aine O'Driscoll 27:11
1st U16 Male - Dara Tobin 22:17
2nd U16 Male - Owen Tobin 25:47
3rd U16 Male - Michael Edward Williamson 26:21
1st U16 Female - Ave Scarlet 27:50
2nd U16 Female - Mia Scarlet 27:51
3rd U16 Female - Sophie Scarlet 27:52
1st Adult Male - Donnie O'Donovan 21:47
2nd Adult Male - Andrew O'Donovan 24:53
3rd Adult Male - Garoid White 28:30
1st Adult Female - Mary O'Donovan 26:05
2nd Adult Female - Thomasena Stout 26:34
3rd Adult Female - Aine O'Driscoll 27:11
1st U16 Male - Dara Tobin 22:17
2nd U16 Male - Owen Tobin 25:47
3rd U16 Male - Michael Edward Williamson 26:21
1st U16 Female - Ave Scarlet 27:50
2nd U16 Female - Mia Scarlet 27:51
3rd U16 Female - Sophie Scarlet 27:52
Results of the St.Mary's Ladies Football 5k in Doneraile Park...Sat 21st May 2016
A total of 126 runners turned out for this 5k in Doneraile Park organised by St.Mary's Ladies Football Club.
1 18.56.86 Nicholas Moloney North Cork A/C
3 19.38.27 Nigel O'Neill North Cork A/C
4 19.56.30 Owen Healy Bweeng Trail Blazers
2 19.03.21 Carol Finn Leevale
7 21.18.62 Bernadette Lee Eagle A/C
8 21.39.23 Brigita Luksre North Cork A/C
The full results can be seen HERE
1 18.56.86 Nicholas Moloney North Cork A/C
3 19.38.27 Nigel O'Neill North Cork A/C
4 19.56.30 Owen Healy Bweeng Trail Blazers
2 19.03.21 Carol Finn Leevale
7 21.18.62 Bernadette Lee Eagle A/C
8 21.39.23 Brigita Luksre North Cork A/C
The full results can be seen HERE
(L) Carol Finn...1st woman |
Labels:
2016,
5km,
results,
St.Mary's Ladies Football Club
Friday, May 20, 2016
Results of the Kilcredan 5k road race...Fri 20th May 2016
It's amazing what a difference 24 hours can make. The sunshine for the Cheetah Run in Fota Wildlife Park on Thursday was replaced by the damp and dreary conditions on Friday for the annual Kilcredan 5k race. Despite the conditions, a total of 230 runners took part.
1 James MCCARTHY 15:07 M (1) MS (1) East Cork AC
2 Nigel SHEEHAN 17:13 M (2) MS (2) Youghal AC
3 Brian CROWLEY 17:16 M (3) M40 (1) Watergrasshill AC
23 Evelyn CASHMAN 19:13 F (1) F45 (1) Youghal AC
38 Helen GILROY 20:21 F (2) F50 (1) Midleton AC
40 Michelle NOLAN 20:24 F (3) F40 (1) Youghal AC
The full results can be seen on the chip timing website HERE
Another version HERE
Photos...(Updated Sun 22nd)
1) The organisers have a gallery HERE
2) Denis O'Flynn has a gallery HERE
1 James MCCARTHY 15:07 M (1) MS (1) East Cork AC
2 Nigel SHEEHAN 17:13 M (2) MS (2) Youghal AC
3 Brian CROWLEY 17:16 M (3) M40 (1) Watergrasshill AC
23 Evelyn CASHMAN 19:13 F (1) F45 (1) Youghal AC
38 Helen GILROY 20:21 F (2) F50 (1) Midleton AC
40 Michelle NOLAN 20:24 F (3) F40 (1) Youghal AC
The full results can be seen on the chip timing website HERE
Another version HERE
Photos...(Updated Sun 22nd)
1) The organisers have a gallery HERE
2) Denis O'Flynn has a gallery HERE
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)