Google+ Running in Cork, Ireland: December 2021

Friday, December 31, 2021

Notice: IMRA Ballyhoura Winter Trail Challenge Marathon - 14th Jan 2022


The Munster branch of IMRA (Irish Mountain Running Association) are holding a full marathon in the Ballyhoura mountains on the Friday the 14th of January 2022. Not only will this be held in the middle of Winter but it will also be held in the dark!

Details....

DESCRIPTION: Ballyhoura Winter Trail Challenge
COUNTY: Limerick
DATE: Friday 14 January, 2022
TIME:19:30
CLIMB (M): 900
DISTANCE (KM): 26.00
RACE MARKING: Route fully marked - Route fully marked
ENTRY CLOSES: 2022-01-07 23:59:00
ENTRY LIMIT: 200
ENTRY COST: €50
GETTING THERE: Scoil Pol, Kilfinane, Co Limerick

As with all IMRA events, annual membership costing €10 for 2022 is required.

ORGANISERS INSTRUCTIONS: Registration will take place at Scoil Pol in Kilfinnane Co Limerick from 5:30pm on Friday 14th January. Entry online only. Complete an lovely 26km course taking in many of the local woodlands and also topping out over Seefin Mountain. 

There will be a cut off point at the check point approx 15km into the course. Those not getting here on the time (tbd) will not be allowed up over the mountain section. Marshals will man the route at sections along the way. The Checkpoint will have water etc and food depending on the weather at the time but defo jellies, biscuits etc. 

Mandatory Kit is: Rain jacket, full vizi vest, headlamp with spare batteries, mobile phone charged and volume on loud, face covering.

PRIZEGIVING LOCATION: On finishing, finishers will receive a souvenir Beanie and a hot roll with tea/coffee.

Results & photos of the Fermoy 10k - 31st Dec 2021

First 3 men in the Fermoy 10k (L-R) 3rd Sergiu Ciobanu, 1st Ryan Creech & 3rd Tim O'Donoghue Photo: Mick Dooley


Top 3 men & women...
 155 1 Ryan Creech Leevale A.C. M 0:29:54 
4419 2 Tim O Donoghue East Cork A.C. M 0:30:33  
108 3 Sergiu Ciobanu Clonliffe Harriers A.C. M 0:31:14 
107 11 Michelle Finn Leevale A.C. F 0:34:35
290 19 Courtney McGuire Clonmel A.C. F 0:36:40
294 21 Niamh Moore Leevale A.C. F 0:36:55

Results

Photos...

1) Mick Dooley has a gallery HERE

Friday Jigsaw: Togher 5k


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a nice photo taken by Mick Dooley of the first 3 women in the recent Togher 5k.

You can find the 165-piece jigsaw HERE


Thursday, December 30, 2021

Parkruns in Wales are cancelled due to covid worries...


Due to increasing Covid infections, the Welsh government has restricted outdoor events to just 50 people. This has in effect stopped all 5k parkruns from going ahead in Wales.

Hopefully we won't see such draconian restrictions in Ireland as the covid numbers increase.

BBC News have the Welsh parkrun story HERE

Castlemagner Charity 5k raises €1385 - 26th Dec 2021


Castlemagner GAA held a charity 5k run on St Stephens Day which attracted a field of over 120. 

A total of €1,385 was raised which will be divided between Kanturk Hospital and St Josephs Foundation in Charleville.

The organisers have a few photos HERE

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Cork runner Michelle Finn wins the Farranfore 5k - 26th Dec 2021

First 3 women (L-R) 2nd Sorcha Ní Dhomhnaill, 1st Michelle Finn, 3rd Niamh O'Mahony

There have been plenty of races outside of Cork during the Christmas period including the annual Farranfore 5k on St Stephen's Day. The first woman home was Cork runner Michelle Finn of Leevale AC.

1 16:05 Michelle Finn F Sen Leevale AC
2 16:19 Sorcha Ní Dhomhnaill F Sen Donore Harriers
3 17:20 Niamh O'Mahony F Sen An Ríocht

Full results HERE 

This was the third win for Michelle in 9 days. On the 19th she won the Newmarket 5k, on the 26th it was the Farranfore 5k and on the following day the 27th of December, she finished first in the Togher 5k.

In Farranfore, Michelle broke the old course record by 13 seconds and also broke the course record in Togher the following day.

Monday, December 27, 2021

Results & Photos of the Togher 5k - 27th Dec 2021


A total of 495 runners turned out for this years Togher AC 55k road race on the 27th of December 2021. While this is a good figure for a 5k race in Cork City, it is however down a whopping 38% on the 797 of two years ago.

As can be seen from the chart above, the numbers are worse than the previous three outings.

Top 3 men & women...
 1 Eimhin O Broin     14:27 SM 548
2 Liam Harris     14:57 SM 559  
3 Conor McCauley     15:04 SM 291  
8 Michelle Finn     16:05 SF 703
23 Jane Buckley     17:14 SF 595  
31 Niamh Moore     17:38 SF 558


As might be expected for a race in Cork City, it attracted mostly runners from Cork City with 20% of the field breaking the 20 minute mark. By comparison, 45% of the field for the recent Newmarket 5k broke 20 minutes and seems to have attracted a faster field from a wider area.

The first woman home was Michelle Finn who also broke the course record with a fine time of 16m 05s.

First 3 women in the Togher 5k (L-R) Jane Buckley (2nd), Michelle Finn (1st) & Niamh Moore (3rd)



Photos...
1) Mick Dooley will have some photos ... start line ... finish line
2) Gearóid Ó Laoi has a small gallery HERE
3) Joe & Anne Murphy have two large galleries... first half of the field... second half-22 mins plus

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 25th Dec 2021


Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Christmas Day. 

Ballincollig Regional Park: 277 this week, 239 last week. Long term average 298.

First 3 men & women...
1 Brian THOMPSON Male SM18-19 17:34
2 John O MAHONY Male VM45-49 17:52
3 Trevor WOODS Male VM50-54 Cork Triathlon Club 18:28
13 Rebecca O'NEILL Female JW11-14 19:24
21 Niamh CRONIN Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 19:43
38 Rachel LEDWITH Female JW11-14 21:32


Glen River: 56 this week, 96 last week. The long term average is 84.

First 3 men & women...
1 Alan SMITH Male SM30-34 Victoria Park Harriers & Tower Hamlets AC 19:49
2 Tobi GRAB Male VM45-49 Leevale AC 20:02
3 Darragh KELLEHER Male SM25-29 20:13
7 Irene EIGHAN Female VW40-44 St Finbarrs AC 21:42
21 Misha PANKHANIA Female SW30-34 24:48
22 Sandra WALSH FemaleVW50-54 24:58

Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 60 this week, 88 for last week. The long term average is 74.

First 3 men & women...
1 Keith KELLY Male VM40-44 17:15
2 Christopher MCCARTHY Male VM40-44 20:00
3 Unknown 
4 Christine PARSONS Female VW35-39 20:23
14 Éadaoin COLEMAN Female VW40-44 22:34
18 Marie AHERNE Female SW30-34 22:52


Clonakilty: 23 finishers this week, 29 finishers last week. Long term average 38.

First 3 men & women...
1 Deirdre MCCARTHY Female VW40-44 Manchester Tri Club 22:00
2 Aisling KIRBY Female SW25-29 22:16
6 Clare OLEARY Female SW30-34 23:27
3 Richard CASEY Male VM50-54 22:31
4 Barry KIRBY Male SM20-24 22:39
5 John SANTRY Male VM35-39 Dell EMC Running Club 23:02 


Glengarriff Woods: There were 41 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. Last week was 50, long term average is 58.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Eoghan MCELHINNEY Male SM20-24 16:44
2 Callum MCELHINNEY Male JM15-17 Bantry Athletic Club 19:40
3 Ciaran O'SULLIVAN Male JM15-17 20:20
6 Caroline MCCARTHY Female SW25-29 22:13
12 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 25:16
13 Caroline O'SULLIVAN Female VW35-39 25:36

Friday, December 24, 2021

Running events over the Christmas period - 25th Dec 2021 to 2nd Jan 2022


I updated the race calendar over the last few days and there are a huge number of running events in Cork and Munster... parkruns, GOAL miles, road race, charity runs and so on. No matter where you live in Munster, there is probably some event nearby.

Check out the race calendar HERE

Friday Jigsaw: Olympic Gold Medalist Paul O'Donovan

 


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a photo of Olympic Gold medalist & rower Paul O'Donovan crossing the finish line at the 2021 Newmarket 5k.

It's 187 pieces so it'll keep you busy for a while over the Christmas period.

You can find it HERE

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Guest Post: Happy Christmas ...by Pat Walsh

 ** Happy Christmas **🎅

‘The power of love
A force from above
Cleaning my soul’

Early post this week as tomorrow everyone is busy. I do hope you are ok and that the Christmas season goes well for you. Many thanks for all the support and to those who sent replies and messages to me during the Year. It is much appreciated.

What can I offer this week only to mind yourself and be careful.

Continue to live your life within the boundaries as we have them, but do not be fearful or worried. Those are negative emotions that only hinder your ability to enjoy life. 

We as runners have learned to adapt, cope, plan and succeed.

Things are not great… but they are not too bad either. Do what you can, be as active as possible, do not wish for the impossible and try to relax.

I have family, friends, food, fuel and still a spark of life and humour.

I can go for a run with my friends and drink coffee from a Horse-Box.

There are many in the world a lot worse off than me.

All I wish for Christmas is to find some semblance of peace in my head, to relax and cope with all that has been thrown at me. You are welcome to share my wish.


Run when and where you can. Sometimes it is the only thing that makes sense.

 ‘I'm so in love with you
Purge the soul
Make love your goal’

Nollaig shona dhaoibh. 

#pwr 😍🥰

12-week training programme for the Mallow 10-mile on the 20th of March 2022


The Mallow 10-mile road race is scheduled to go ahead Sunday the 20th of March 2022.

A 12-week training programme for more seasoned runners starts on the 27th of December 2021 and costs €69.

This will suit anyone who is getting ready for this 10-mile event and wants to optimize their training.
Each programme is sent out weekly and is tailored for each individual. Weekly feedback by email is required.

If interested, send an email to johndesmondrunning AT gmail DOT com


Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Notice: IMRA Bweeng 10k trail race - 1st Jan 2022


The Munster branch of IMRA are kicking off their 2022 calendar with a trail race on the 1st of January at 12 noon at Bweeng.

The course is 10kms and has an ascent of 330metres. This could be described as being a tough trail race in a forest rather than being like the original IMRA events which were up and down mountains.

Annual membership of IMRA for 2022 is required (€10) but that then covers you for all of the races for the year.

More info on their event page... https://imra.ie/events/view/id/2134

Sunday, December 19, 2021

Results & Photos of the Newmarket 5k road race - Sun 19th Dec 2021


The Newmarket 5k road race is going from strength to strength with a record 424 runners turning out for this years event, an impressive jump of 26%!

This is in marked contrast to some of the other recent local races which have suffered major drops...( Glenville 4m down 29%, Thomas Kent 10k down 14%). So it's not all doom and gloom, not all local road races are suffering a big drop off in numbers.

For the Newmarket race, there was 191 runners under the 20 minute mark which is huge in terms of a local race in Cork.

Top 5 men & women...
 1 Eimhin O Broin Togher     14:06 SM 295
2 Ryan Creech Leevale AC     14:12 SM 620
3 John Travers Donore Harriers AC     14:17 SM 621
4 Niall Shanahan An Bru AC     14:22 SM 31
5 Oisin Spillane Tralee Harriers AC     14:35 SM 539
25 Michelle Finn Leevale AC     15:58 SF 443
28 Bronagh Kearns St Senans AC     16:07 SF 281
32 Cliona Murphy DCH     16:13 SF 535
44 Maisy O Sullivan St Abbans AC     16:34 SF 611
65 Martina Kiely St Finbarrs AC     17:08 SF 454

The full results are up on the Premier Timing Systems website HERE


Mick Dooley has two galleries... Start ... Finish

And they're off!

First 3-men in the home straight

15:26 finish time for Irish pro-cyclist Eddie Dunbar

16:55 finish time for Olympic Gold medalist & rower Paul O'Donovan


Guest Post: Déjà vu ...by Pat Walsh

 ** Déjà vu **

Here we go again. For the 2nd Year in a row, ‘a Meaningful Christmas’ is a bit weird, strange and unusual. Case numbers, variants and vaccines are daily discussion points and what lies ahead for the festive season and into the New Year is a guess. Not what we were used to and I'm wondering when will we ever return to where we were.

What can I offer to runners.🏃🏃

Mind yourself physically and mentally. Stay healthy, stay active, and get plenty of fresh air. Get outdoors as often as you can and whatever form of exercise is great, just keep moving.

Don’t overdo it. This is no time to be getting sick or injured, as the HealthCare system is overloaded already without you adding to it. Don’t kill yourself with huge long runs, just a few nice, easy, handy, sociable jaunts with the buddies or the dog. Just keep ticking over and make the first week of the New Year a bit easier on yourself.

Mentally, just try to stay positive, stay in touch with others, don’t be reading or listening to too much bad news. It is happening anyway and you will be able to do very little to affect it, only to mind yourself and those around you. For most of us, our sphere of influence doesn’t extended any further than that. There may or may not be trouble ahead but we have survived 2 years of it and we know we can cope. 

Runners are the best of people.  Dream of glory in 2022. Pick a key goal for next Year and believe in yourself. Folks please keep in touch with your friends. 

If you get running Christmas presents then nice to use them and show them off. Hopefully the gloves and thermal leggings won’t ever be needed but good to have them anyway.

Don’t worry about fuel or carbo-loading for any run because Tins of Roses, Mince Pies, Snacks, Nibbles and a few drinks ensures that you have enough calories on board until at least St Patrick’s Day.

Above all else, mind yourself and stay safe.  Feel free to contact me if you need to. I will run a Christmas photo competition next week where we can have a laugh and fun while we move. 

A wish for you. 

“May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve”

#pwr #believeinyourself #BeStrong

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 18th Dec 2021


Results of this weeks nine 5k parkruns around the county. 

Ballincollig Regional Park: 239 this week, 272 last week. Long term average 298.

First 3 men & women...
1 Darren MCCANN Male VM35-39 16:58
2 Justin RYAN Male SM30-34 17:05
3 Jer O SULLIVAN Male VM40-44 17:11
24 Gail MURRAY Female VW40-44 Belgooly AC 20:27
40 Ella COLLINS Female JW15-17 21:32
41 Ruth COMERFORD Female SW20-24 21:36


Mallow Castle: 73 finishers this week, 75 last week. The long term average is 93.

First 3 men & women...
1 Unknown
3 Patrick MAHER Male SM25-29 19:12
4 Andrzej CHOMICZ Male VM40-44 Mallow AC 19:22
2 Ailbhe MCDAID Female VW35-39 18:46
27 Amanda LENIHAN Female SW30-34 24:08
29 Johannah MCSWEENEY Female JW10 25:04


Glen River: 93 this week, 63 last week. The long term average is 85.

First 3 men & women...
1 Finbarr ODWYER Male VM45-49 Leevale AC 18:11
2 Mark MCCOLGAN Male VM35-39 East End Road Runners 18:35
3 Seamus LEDDY Male VM40-44 Abbey Runners Leeds 20:10
18 Niamh SHEEHAN Female SW30-34 Togher AC 24:00
25 Sandra WALSH Female VW50-54 25:19
28 Claire CURTIN Female VW35-39 White Rock Runners 25:40

Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 87 this week, 67 for last week. The long term average is 74.

First 3 men & women...
1 Tim O DONOGHUE Male VM35-39 15:43
2 James MCCARTHY Male VM35-39 16:30
3 Kevin O'BRIEN Male SM30-34 17:06
15 Siobhan HOLLAND Female VW45-49 Eagle A.C. 21:13
17 Janette O SULLIVAN Female VW40-44 21:35
24 Stephanie ILSLEY Female VW60-64 22:55


Macroom Desmense: 60 this week, 44 last week. Long term average is 54.

First 3 men & women...
1 Conor LUCEY Male VM35-39 18:46
2 Alan O' CONNOR Male SM30-34 19:39
3 Jude MURPHY Male JM11-14 20:00
4 Rachael O SHEA Female SW25-29 20:01
10 Clodagh MURRAY Female JW11-14 22:27
17 Isla YORE Female JW10 24:28


Clonakilty: 29 finishers this week, 18 finishers last week. Long term average 37.

First 3 men & women...
1 Timothy O DONNELL Male VM40-44 Crusaders Athletic Club 20:03
2 Barry KIRBY Male SM20-24 22:48
3 Shane WINTERS Male JM10 22:59
10 Susan STEELE Female VW45-49 25:38
12 Grainne CROWLEY Female VW45-49 26:04
14 Grainne MULCAHY Female SW20-24 27:16


Castlehaven: 19 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 18 last week. Long term average 31.

First 3 men & women...
1 Unknown
2 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 22:07
3 James WHITE Male VM35-39 23:19
9 Sharon LEVIS Female VW40-44 28:40
11 Celine BUCKLEY Female VW50-54 Castlehaven GAA 30:41
12 Marcella QUILTER Female VW45-49 31:13


Bere Island: 22 this week, 23 last week, long term average of 47. 

First 3 men & women...
1 Billy MORIARTY Male JM11-14 St Brendan's AC Ardfert 21:52
2 Olan MURPHY Male JM15-17 22:28
4 Ultan MURPHY Male JM11-14 24:35
3 Michelagh MURPHY Female JW15-17 23:22
5 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 24:37
7 Mags O NEILL Female VW45-49 Beara AC 26:45


Glengarriff Woods: There were 50 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. Last week was 41, long term average is 58.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Stephen O'SULLIVAN Male VM50-54 21:14
2 Innes YELLOWLEES Male SM20-24 22:07
3 Danny MANNING Male VM45-49 22:12
4 Caroline KELLY Female VW35-39 London City Athletics Club 22:27
6 Sarah MOLLOY Female VW40-44 23:41
7 Maria HURLEY Female VW60-64 Bantry Athletic Club 24:09

Friday, December 17, 2021

Training programme for the 2022 Cork City Marathon & Half-Marathon


The Cork City Marathon, Half-Marathon & Relay is going ahead on Sunday the 5th of June 2022.

I will be starting an 18-week training programme for the marathon on the 31st of January and a 14-week programme for the half-marathon on the 28th of February.

However, I've had some enquiries from some people who would like a longer training period.

I will be doing a 24-week course for both the marathon and half-marathon and it will start on the 20th of December. This will be broken up into two 12-week blocks which cost €69 each.

This will suit anyone who wants to optimize their training in the months ahead and feels that they need the extra time.

Each programme is sent out weekly and is tailored for each individual. Weekly feedback by email is required.

If interested, send an email to johndesmondrunning AT gmail DOT com

Friday Jigsaw: Cork BHAA Turkey Trot 2021


For this weeks online jigsaw, we go back to last weekend and the Cork BHAA Turkey Trot and the group photo taken by Mick Dooley. There is a lot of colour in this one so I've made it 225 pieces.

You can find the jigsaw HERE


Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Northern entrance to Tramore Valley Park is now open - Dec 2021

 


The good news is that the northern entrance to Tramore Valley Park in Cork City is now open. The photo above shows the entrance from Half-Moon Lane.

This is the view from the other side...


As you can see on the left, there is a new footpath as well. The photo below shows the old gate.


The new footpath extends up Half Moon Lane, past the girls secondary school and up to the South Douglas Road.


Up to now, the only pedestrian entrance to the park was from Douglas. Otherwise, people had to drive there and park. This was a crazy situation for people living in Turners Cross and Ballyphehane who are right next to the park.


The above map shows that a route which now crosses the park. People now have the option of walking, cycling or running through the park as part of a larger route.

What Next??... I suspect the next is that the City Council will fit gates to this new entrance. The park after all does have opening and closing times and that only makes sense if there if there are gates on all the entrances.

Considering that there is a footpath all the way down Half-Moon Lane, there is no excuse to have this entrance closed while the park is open.

5k parkrun??... The next obvious question is what about the Tramore Valley Park 5k parkrun? Can it restart?

Here are some stats about the parkrun is this park...

A) The very first Tramore Valley 5k parkrun was held on the 26th of September 2015

B) Only 15 events were held. The average number of participants was 207 per event.

C) The last one on the 23rd of January 2016 attracted 533 participants. The larger numbers were due to the Operation Transformation TV programme and this seems to been the one that caused the Council to suspend it.

Think about that for a second. It's been almost 6-years since the last parkrun was held here.

It's a damning reflection on Cork City Council that they haven't allowed it to restart.

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Notice: Newmarket 5k road race - Sun 19th Dec 2021



This popular 5 km road race is coming up in the town of Newmarket in North-West Cork on Sunday the 19th of December 2021. This is a fast 5k course and gets a good turnout every year.

Update from Duhallow AC... "Due to circumstances beyond our control the Start time of our race is been deferred one hour to  start at a new time of 2pm . We are sorry for inconvenience caused due to this. This call was made in the interest of the athletes health and safety due an event taking place causing traffic congestion in the town at the initial race star time."

Note the new start time of 2pm

Entries... CLOSED

Monday, December 13, 2021

Results & photos of the Cork BHAA Turkey Trot - Sun 12th Dec 2021


A total of 151 runners turned up for this years Cork BHAA Simon Turkey Trot and €2500 was raised for the Cork Simon Community.

First 3 men & women...
1 Tobi Grab 17:59 
2 John O'Connell 18:53 
3 Johan Reiser 18:55 
8 Siobhan Holland 19:50 
15 Mary Sweeney 20:57 
20 Elaine Guinane 21:27 

The full results are HERE

Photos...
1) Mick Dooley has some photos HERE
2) Joe Murphy has some photos HERE

Saturday, December 11, 2021

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 11th Dec 2021


Results of this weeks nine 5k parkruns around the county. 

Ballincollig Regional Park: 272 this week, 288 last week. Long term average 299.

First 3 men & women...
1 Rory O' SULLIVAN Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 17:05
2 Tadhg CROWLEY Male VM35-39 Sanctuary Runners 17:30
3 Diarmaid NOLAN Male SM30-34 17:55
4 Michelle KENNY Female VW40-44 Leevale AC 17:58
9 Sinead ODRISCOLL Female VW40-44 18:36
27 Niamh CRONIN Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 20:41


Mallow Castle: 75 finishers this week, 100 last week. The long term average is 94.

First 3 men & women...
1 Shane SIMCOX Male VM45-49 Mallow AC 17:33
2 Brian AHERN Male VM45-49 Bweeng Trail Blazers 19:08
3 Andrzej CHOMICZ Male VM40-44 Mallow AC 19:14
15 Máire MCKENNA Female VW40-44 21:53
19 Norah MCGLYNN Female JW15-17 22:27
25 Orla NOLAN Female VW50-54 Dromahane Roadrunners 23:26


Glen River: 63 this week, 67 last week. The long term average is 85.

First 3 men & women...
1 Alfie DAVIS Male VM45-49 18:46
2 Ben O'SULLIVAN Male JM15-17 19:25
3 Edward AHERN Male SM25-29 20:44
10 Helen WALSH Female VW45-49 Togher AC 23:02
14 Sandra WALSH Female VW50-54 24:22
20 Maria STONE Female SW30-34 25:45


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 60 this week, 55 for last week. The long term average is 78.

First 3 men & women...
1 Don RYAN Male VM45-49 19:04
2 Ciaran O MATHUNA Male SM20-24 19:25
3 Kevin FENNESSY Male VM45-49 19:32
17 Claire MURPHY Female VW45-49 24:14
18 Josephine O SULLIVAN Female VW45-49 25:10
20 Marta BODENKO Female VW35-39 Polish Runners Club Ireland 25:46


Macroom Desmense: 46 this week, 44 last week. Long term average is 54.

First 3 men & women...
1 Jude MURPHY Male JM11-14 20:15
2 Diarmuid HOLLAND Male VM45-49 20:19
3 Matt MURPHY Male JM15-17 21:37
15 Mairead MURPHY Female VW45-49 26:34
16 Lynda BRADLEY Female VW45-49 26:41
17 Leah BRADLEY Female JW11-14 26:55


Clonakilty: 18 finishers this week, 26 finishers last week. Long term average 37.

First 3 men & women...
1 Daniel BROCK Male SM25-29 Reading AC 22:23
2 Barry KIRBY Male SM20-24 22:49
3 Marcus FAIRBROTHER Male VM45-49 25:13
6 Susan STEELE Female VW45-49 25:31
8 Grainne CROWLEY Female VW45-49 26:26
10 Lucy CRONIN Female JW11-14 29:40


Castlehaven: 18 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 11 last week. Long term average 31.

First 3 men & women...
1 Ciarán BOUSE Male VM40-44 Eagle A.C. 24:24
2 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 24:24
3 Unknown
6 Niamh O'BRIEN Female SW30-34 26:35
9 Danielle SHEEHY Female SW25-29 28:45
11 Mairead COLLINS Female VW35-39 31:25


Bere Island: 23 this week, 22 last week, long term average of 47. 

First 3 men & women...
1 Michelagh MURPHY Female JW15-17 23:36
3 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 25:04
4 Mags O NEILL Female VW45-49 Beara AC 26:17
2 Breandan MURPHY Male SM18-19 24:56
5 Unknown 
8 Rory MCCARTHY Male VM60-64 27:49


Glengarriff Woods: There were 41 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. Last week was 44, long term average is 58.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Gary O'DRISCOLL Male SM25-29 Beara AC 19:39
2 Darragh COPPINGER Male JM11-14 21:34
3 Stephen O'SULLIVAN Male VM50-54 22:00
5 Caroline KELLY Female SW30-34 London City Athletics Club 22:16 
13 Breda MCELHINNEY Female VW55-59 25:11
14 Fleur HINDLEY Female VW55-59 25:15

Guest Post: Get Motivated to Run for 2022 ...by Pat Walsh

 ** Get Motivated to Run for 2022 **

Get the head thinking about the New Year. Just let the brain develop the thoughts and actions over the next few weeks.  No need to go mad at the moment, just be thinking. We have to take back control of ourselves and our lives.
I'm not going MAD, I'm taking charge.

* Know Your Objective
Why are you doing this and remind yourself of this on regular basis.
If you don't know why you are doing it, you are likely to give up too soon. 
You may want to lose weight, get healthy, fresh air, fight depression, get some headspace. Get out of the house and be sociable No matter what the reason is, make sure you know why you want to run. Write it down

* Set a Goal
It is much easier to stay motivated if you have a goal. 
Sign up for a race. If you are running already set a target finishing time.
If you are training for a Marathon remind yourself why you are doing it before the hard miles kick in.

* Follow a Training Plan
Many beginners make the same mistake. They just put on their shoes and try to run for as long as they can. In five minutes or less, they run out of breath, switch to walking and swear not to do it again. Follow a plan
Same applies to experienced runners who have a goal but just try too hard. Get a good plan and stick to it.

* Get a buddy
Everything is easier and much more fun when you have a group to share it with. Running is a great way of making new friends. 

* Keep a diary
Write everything down—record not only time and distance but also your feelings and emotions. It does help to look back and see how much you have progressed.



* Educate Yourself
Try to learn as much as you can about running. Read websites and blogs, participate in forums. It will keep you interested, give you useful information, and make you feel part of the running community. 

* Reward Yourself
Training might be tough at times but it doesn't mean hard work leaves no room for a little treat. You run because you love yourself, not because you want to torture yourself. Celebrate success. Buy something that will help you with your new hobby: a new running shirt, a pair of new shoes, a water bottle or a runner's watch.

* Enjoy It
We all prefer to do things we enjoy. If you like something, you keep doing it. Think about running not as an activity you have to do, but as a way to get time for yourself, develop your physical and spiritual potential. Every time you run, you learn something new about yourself, and this is priceless.

* Smile
It may sound silly, but it works. Smile when you run—it tells your brain you are happy, and you should be. Say hello to fellow runners. Think about all those people who would love to do what you are doing. As your body gets stronger, fitter and healthier, your life will get better. Isn't that reason enough to smile? 

“Success is not final,
Failure is not fatal,
It is the courage to continue that counts”
#pwr #keeponrunning  #2022

Friday, December 10, 2021

Friday Jigsaw: RNLI Reindeer Run 5k in Fota


For this weeks online jigsaw, we go back to the RNLI Reindeer Run on the grounds of Fota House last weekend.

You can find the 126-piece jigsaw HERE

Thursday, December 09, 2021

Notice: Cork BHAA Simon 3-mile Turkey Trot - Sun 12th Dec 2021

The final race in the 2021 Cork BHAA calendar is the Simon Turkey Trot coming up on Sunday the 12th of December at 11am. This year, it will be 3-miles as opposed to 5k during to local roadworks.

Registration takes place at Blackrock Hurling Club from 9.30am. Entries cost €10 for all runners with proceeds going towards Cork Simon. No watches or phones allowed as you will have to predict your finish time in advance.

From the Cork BHAA..."Please note that you need to wear a mask at registration and we would appreciate if groups can be kept to a minimum inside so please send one person in to register a group."

Wednesday, December 08, 2021

Fionnuala McCormack runs 3 minute PB with a time of 2h 23m 58s in the Valencia Marathon


Fionnuala McCormack took nearly three minutes off her previous best time when she finished the Valencia Marathon last Sunday in a time of 2 hours 23 minutes and 58 seconds.

These are Fionnuala's splits during the marathon with her going through the first 5k in 17:04!

RUNNER i 
5K 0:17:04 
10K 0:34:03 
15K 0:51:07 
20K 1:07:51 
Half 1:11:33 
25K 1:24:46 
30K 1:42:09 
35K 1:59:43 
40K 2:16:43 

As you can see from her halfway split, her second half was about 52 seconds slower.

This is now the top 10 list of marathon times for Irish women...

1 2:22:23 NR Catherina McKiernan Amsterdam 1 Nov 1998
2 2:23:58 Fionnuala McCormack 5 Valencia 05 Dec 2021
(2 2:26:47 Fionnuala McCormack 5 Chicago IL 13 Oct 2019)
3 2:28:07 Carey May 1 Osaka 27 Jan 1985
4 2:28:36 Aoife Cooke 1 Pulford 25 Apr 2021
5 2:29:01 Sonia O'Sullivan 8 London 17 Apr 2005
6 2:29:34 AnnMarie McGlynn 3 Pulford 25 Apr 2021
7 2:32:51 Lizzie Lee 17 Berlin 27 Sep 2015
8 2:32:56 Regina Joyce-Bonney 7 Scottsdale AZ 4 Dec 1982
9 2:33:25 Dylan Hassett Pulford 25 Apr 2021
10 2:33:28 Nicola Duncan 1 London 13 Apr 2014

It's worth mentioning that Sinead Diver who is from Co Mayo and runs for Australia has a PB of 2:24:11 from the 2019 London Marathon.

5th place finish for Fionnuala McCormack in the 2021 Valencia Marathon

Tuesday, December 07, 2021

Photos of the RNLI Reindeer Run 5k in Fota - Sun 5th Dec 2021


The weather was ideal for this years RNLI Reindeer Run 5k in Fota on Sunday the 5th of December 2021 with lots of runners and walkers turning out to support this charity fundraiser.


RNLI Crosshaven have a gallery HERE

Joe & Anne Murphy have a gallery HERE

Monday, December 06, 2021

Guest Post: What now??? ...by Pat Walsh

 ** What now **

There are more chapters in this Covid crisis that we can count. Every time we feel there is light, then another curveball comes along. Chapter 271 in the Never-Ending Story that is a Pnademic. I didn’t spell it wrong, I just don’t want to write it …

I feel like a runner at mile 20 of a Marathon who has heard they have moved the finish line a few miles further up the road. It was tough to this point and what is ahead of me now.

It was looking like, after a nervy winter, we would be back in glorious pasture, like the lambs in the fields come Springtime, and running and racing to our hearts content. 

And now a new variant ffs. I do think Ebenezer Scrooge who is a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas from the famous Charles Dickens novel has come back to life and joined NPHET.
🥰

Fear not, we must stay positive.

It is the start of December and this year is nearly over I’m glad to say.
Famous last words but surely next year can’t be any worse.
We must continue to train as it is vital to keep our physical and mental health intact.
Don’t let it get you down. It isn’t easy on anyone but we must rise above the negativity.

“They might try to stop us going to the Panto but they cannot kill our sense of humour.”..... 'Braveheart'
.
Positives 🏃

We are NOT back in Lockdown, we are free to travel and meet our friends for a run. 
The Supply Chain crisis that has hit some items, still has not hit the sales of coffee and muffins. The Horsebox Coffee spots are all open. A good coat and a woolly hat are vital bits of training equipment. More important than fancy Nike shoes.

The races of 2022 are being advertised and yes it is good to enter them and get a goal to aim for. I have entered some and I am hopeful.

A mile of running is a mile more than sitting on the couch.
Fresh air is vital every day. Exercise somewhere nice and scenic. Let the scenery enter your spirit.
Turn off the News, it is bad for you.
A walk or a cycle can be a suitable substitute for a run.
Enjoy your food but don’t go daft and spend all of January suffering to lose it.
Keep up the stretching and some strength work. Lifting a can of beer does not count as a bicep curl.
Watch comedy programs and films. Laugh out loud.
Run because there may not be much else to do.
🏃



Make plans with friends to stay running together, as support for December was always important with the deluge of food and drink that is about to hit for the next 4 weeks. It is always easier to go if you have made plans to meet. We don’t let one another down so we are more likely to go. Plan Plan and make more plans..
..
Folks, maybe I am full of platitudes and spouting the same nonsense for the last 2 years, but what choice do we have. Don’t let it all overwhelm you and get too much to handle. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you need help. The nights are long and this can be a tough time of the year on everyone anyway. Don’t imagine it is brilliant for everyone else. It isn’t. You can message or contact me anytime.

Just keep going please. 
#pwr #keeponrunning

Sunday, December 05, 2021

Cork runner Lizzie Lee wins 5k race in the Phoenix Park in 16m 15s


The 30th Annual Jingle Bells 5k organised by Donore Harriers AC was held on Saturday 4th December 2021 in the Phoenix Park, Dublin. The first woman home was Lizzie Lee from Cork in an impressive time of 16 mins 15 secs.

As you can see from the photo above, Lizzie was pushed all of the way to the line by Sorcha Ní Dhómnaill of the host club Donore Harriers.

There were 1044 finishers in the race and it was a fast field with 346 finishing under 20 minutes. 

A total of 60 women went under 20 minutes which is in marked contrast to a lot of other 5k races where the field is much slower.

5k
1 John Travers Donore Harriers M 0:14:22  
2 Conor Maguire Monaghan Phoenix A.C. M 0:14:26  
3 Mitchell Byrne Rathfarnham W.S.A.F. A.C. 0:14:28 0:14:28
1 Lizzie Lee Leevale AC F40 0:16:15  
2 Sorcha Ní Dhómhnaill Donore Harriers F 0:16:19  
3 Catherina Mullen Metro/St. Brigid's A.C. F 0:16:31


Saturday, December 04, 2021

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 4th Dec 2021


There seems to have been a uptick in numbers for the 5k parkruns in Cork this weekend.

Results of this weeks nine 5k parkruns around the county. 

Ballincollig Regional Park: 288 this week, 214 last week. Long term average 299.

First 3 men & women...
1 Colm FITZGERALD Male SM20-24 St Finbarrs AC 16:30
2 Barry MEADE Male VM35-39 16:41
3 Ciaran COSTELLO Male SM25-29 Piranha TC 17:01
13 Linda O SULLIVAN Female VW50-54 Watergrasshill AC 19:16
15 Linda KELLY Female VW45-49 Carrigaline A.C 19:36
24 Clodagh FITZGERALD Female SW30-34 St Finbarrs AC 20:26


Mallow Castle: 100 finishers this week, 60 last week. The long term average is 94.

First 3 men & women...
1 Daniel REYNOLDS Male SM30-34 17:46
2 Anthony MCGIVNEY Male VM35-39 18:50
3 Ronan MOYNIHAN Male VM35-39 Crusaders Athletic Club 18:52
17 Norah MCGLYNN Female JW15-17 22:48
24 Orla NOLAN Female VW50-54 Dromahane Roadrunners 23:19
31 Davina CROWLEY Female VW40-44 24:20


Glen River: 67 this week, 60 last week. The long term average is 85.

First 3 men & women...
1 Richard BOURKE Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 19:25
2 Loic GAREL Male VM40-44 19:56
3 Dermot WOODS Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 20:58
9 Sally-Ann LYNCH Female SW30-34 23:17
15 Noreen O KEEFFE Female VW45-49 Watergrasshill AC 24:39
19 Imelda LYONS Female VW40-44 25:35


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 60 this week, 55 for last week. The long term average is 78.

First 3 men & women...
1 Paul KEARNEY Male VM35-39 Aghada Running Club 17:36
2 Ben O'SULLIVAN Male JM15-17 18:46
3 Lee CURLEY Male SM25-29 19:19
12 Sinead FITZGERALD Female VW45-49 23:11
13 Emer BUCKLEY Female SW30-34 parkrun Trippers 24:12
14 Claire MURPHY Female VW45-49 24:51


Macroom Desmense: 46 this week, 44 last week. Long term average is 54.

First 3 men & women...
1 Conor LUCEY Male VM35-39 18:56
2 Jude MURPHY Male JM11-14 20:25
3 Diarmuid HOLLAND Male VM45-49 20:28
15 Isla YORE Female JW10 25:58
17 Orla MCCARTHY Female VW55-59 26:54
18 Sinead TWOMEY Female VW35-39 27:34


Clonakilty: There was no 5k parkrun in Clonakilty last week due to the Clonakilty Marathon taking place. It was 32 a fortnight ago and 26 this week. Long term average 37.

First 3 men & women...
1 Edward AHERN Male SM25-29 20:01
2 Richard CASEY Male VM50-54 22:01
3 Colm O'SULLIVAN Male VM55-59 Bishopstown Orienteering Club 22:24
8 Sandra WALSH Female VW50-54 24:51
11 Avril LYSAGHT Female SW25-29 25:39
13 Kathleen O REGAN Female VW35-39 26:23


Castlehaven: 11 finishers this week, 23 last week, long term average 31.

First 3 men & women...
1 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 22:49
2 Donal ODONOVAN Male VM40-44 22:52
3 Donnacha MC CARTHY Male VM35-39 23:33
4 Emer COURTNEY Female VW35-39 24:57
8 Mairead COLLINS Female VW35-39 28:08
9 Frances LYNCH Female W55-59 Sanctuary Runners 29:04


Bere Island: 17 this week, 21 last week, long term average of 47. 

First 3 men & women...
1 Ray SMITH Male VM55-59 21:43
3 Michael REID Male VM35-39 23:28
4 Breandan MURPHY Male SM18-19 24:52
2 Michelagh MURPHY Female JW15-17 23:07
5 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 24:53
6 Mags O NEILL Female VW45-49 Beara AC 26:12


Glengarriff Woods: There were 44 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. Last week was 38, long term average is 58.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Cathal MINEHANE Male VM40-44 21:28
2 Cillian BYRNE Male SM25-29 22:45
3 Kevin MULCAHY Male VM35-39 22:59
7 Breda MCELHINNEY Female VW55-59 24:43
8 Stacey O SULLIVAN Female SW30-34 24:48
9 Marian MINEHANE Female VW35-39 25:06