Google+ Running in Cork, Ireland: December 2022

Saturday, December 31, 2022

Death of the Biscuit Tin - 31st December 2022


From the 1st of January 2023, the new Athletics Ireland 'One-Day Licence' will be introduced for all club races. I covered this in a previous post but it essentially means the following...

a) All non-club runners will now have to pay an additional €2 charge 

b) All entries must go through the Event Master website before race day.

This is a big change and effectively ends the traditional way of entering road races i.e. deciding on the day whether to go or not, turning up and throwing a few Euro into the biscuit tin at the entry desk.

This was the norm up to very recently, you just paid a modest entry fee on the day in cash. It was only back in 2017 that the entry fee for three of the four 5-mile races in the Ballycotton Summer Series was €5 per race. The fourth one was €6 as €1 went to charity.

If we look at a club race in 2023, €15-€20 is the norm. Add in the online charges and the new one day licence and some runners will be looking at €20-€25 per race. And they're the cheap races.

It's hard to see the same number of club races continuing going forward when 5k parkruns are free and the Cork BHAA races cost €10 max.

Results of the Fermoy New Years Eve 10k - Sat 31st Dec 2022

The Fermoy New Years Eve 10k was another club race on Saturday the 31st of December 2022 with 233 taking part in this one. This was down even more than Shandrum with a drop of 21% on last year.

Full results on the Pop-Up Races website

Results of the Shandrum 5k - Sat 31st Dec 2022


The annual Shandrum Christmas 5k in North Cork was held on Saturday the 31st of December 2022 and there were 103 finishers. As can be seen from the chart above, the numbers were down 18% this year.

The fact it was on a Saturday and clashed with the Mallow 5k parkrun probably didn't help. There was another club race in Fermoy on the same day which seems a bit crazy as the catchment areas for both races would overlap.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Robert Troy Liscarroll AC 16:27 SM 561
2 Cathal O Connell St Finbarrs AC 17:17 SM 537
4 Patrick Troy Newtownshandrum 18:13 SM 996
3 Michelle Kenny Leevale AC 17:49 SF 571
10 Aisling Fitzgerald West Limerick AC 18:41 SF 486
11 Emma Flynn North Cork AC  18:44 SF 488

Full results on the Premier Timing website

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 31st December 2022



Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 31st December 2022. Approx 590 runners and walkers took part in the 9 events in Co Cork.

ONGOING...

Ballincollig Regional Park: 225 this week, 216 last week. Long term average 289
First 3 men & women...
Ballincollig results...  CANCELLED DUE TO FLOODING

Tramore Valley Park: 200 runners took part in this event. 135 last week. The long term average is 161.

First 3 men & women...
1 Colm PARNELL Male SM30-34 16:36
2 Ciaran DOHERTY Male SM30-34 18:13
3 Briain MADDEN Male SM25-29 18:21
11 Helen WALSH Female VW45-49 Togher AC 20:52
27 Clodagh CREEDON Female VW40-44 21:51
39 Carmel PARNELL Female VW65-69 Leevale AC 22:36


Glen River: 52 this week, 65 last week. The long term average is 76.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Aidan MAHER Male JM15-17 Carraig na bhFear AC 18:45
2 Tobi GRAB Male VM45-49 Leevale AC 19:42
3 Kieran O SULLIVAN Male VM50-54 St Finbarrs AC 20:34
6 Lisa CROWLEY Female VW45-49 Watergrasshill AC 21:45
7 Irene EIGHAN Female VW40-44 St Finbarrs AC 21:50
10 Niamh SHEEHAN Female SW30-34 Togher AC 22:15


Mallow Castle: 76 finishers this week, 74 last week. The long term average is 66.

First 3 men & women...
1 Carol FINN Female SW30-34 18:33
11 Máire MCKENNA Female VW40-44 23:26
12 Sarah SHEEHAN Female JW10 24:56
2 Brian KIELY Male VM45-49 19:44
3 Daniel MORROGH Male VM40-44 20:03
4 Jack BUGLER Male JM15-17 20:30


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 61 this week, 75 last week. The long term average is 63.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Fionn NEVILLE Male JM15-17 18:46
2 Noel EARLY Male VM40-44 St Catherines AC 18:47
3 James MAHER Male SM30-34 19:16
7 Aimee KEARNEY Female JW11-14 21:14
18 Susan DINEEN Female VW40-44 23:52
19 Claire MURPHY Female VW50-54 23:53


Macroom Desmense: 37 this week, 46 last week. Long term average is 52.

First 3 men & women...
1 Conor LUCEY Male VM35-39 18:55
2 Jude MURPHY Male JM15-17 21:00
3 Peter HOWARD Male VM40-44 21:06
11 Maria NEVILLE Female VW50-54 27:22
13 Sinead TWOMEY Female VW35-39 27:31
14 Marie MCCARTHY Female VW45-49 27:39


Clonakilty: 25 finishers this week, 30 last week. Long term average 36.

First 3 men & women...
1 Adrian DEVITT Male VM45-49 Dave Bradshaw Running 20:21
2 James POWELL Male VM40-44 22:50
3 Colm O'SULLIVAN Male VM55-59 Bishopstown Orienteering Club 23:01
8 Niamh O'BRIEN Female SW30-34 25:18
9 Susan STEELE Female VW45-49 25:54
14 Lisa ENRIGHT Female VW35-39 27:58


Glengarriff Woods: There were 50 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. It was 45 last week, long term average is 58.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Callum MCELHINNEY Male JM15-17 Bantry Athletic Club 19:50
2 Peter LITTLE Male VM55-59 20:10
3 Unknown 
10 Deirdre HARRINGTON Female VW40-44 Edinburgh AC 25:18
13 Caroline O'SULLIVAN Female VW40-44 26:16
15 Pippa O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 26:52


Bere Island: 61 this week, 21 last week, long term average of 46. 

First 3 men & women...
1 Pat SHEEHAN Male VM60-64 Kenmare Tri Club 22:29
3 Unknown 
4 Sean O SULLIVAN Male SM25-29 22:43
2 Michelagh MURPHY Female SW18-19 22:37
6 Rosie LENEHAN Female VW45-49 run4fun 24:46
9 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 25:34


Castlehaven: 27 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 32 last week. Long term average 29.

First 3 women & men...
1 Dan LENNARD-JONES Male SM25-29 21:00
2 Unknown
3 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 21:27
6 Emma O' SULLIVAN Female SW30-34 24:38
7 Katie COOKE Female VW40-44 Cork Triathlon Club 24:56
12 Aoife CLINCH Female JW11-14 28:15

Friday, December 30, 2022

Friday Jigsaw: Togher 5k start - Dec 2022


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a photo from Mick Dooley of the start line at the recent 2022 Togher 5k road race.

There are 154-pieces and you can find it HERE

Thursday, December 29, 2022

Dungarvan 10 mile entries open on Thurs 1st Dec 2022...


The John Treacy Dungarvan 10-mile road race will be held on Sunday the 5th of February 2023 and now is the time to look at some key dates. 

Update 29th December 2022: Entries for the 2023 Dungarvan 10-mile have now closed.

It's interesting to look back at the demand for this race. Entries opened on the 1st of December for club runners. It opened for everyone on the 8th of December. The number of available entries increased this year from 3,000 to 3,750, a 25% increase.

Entries closed on the 27th of December which means that anyone that really wanted to enter could do so, there was no real advantage in being a member of a club other than saving the €2 'One-Day Licence'.

Entries are still open for elite runners. From West Waterford AC... "JOHN TREACY DUNGARVAN 10. IN A FEW DAYS OUR WAITING LIST WILL BE IN OPERATION AND NUMBERS WILL BE ALLOCATED ON A PRO RATA BASES AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE. 

Elite entries will be accepted up to Friday 27th January 2023. The standards set down are Men 55 minutes and Ladies 60 Minutes. These times must have been posted within the last 2 years. Proof of these qualifying times may be required.

ELITE ENTRIES ENQUIRIES TO info AT westwaterfordathletics DOT org"

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Results of the Togher 5k road race - Tues 27th Dec 2022


The annual Togher AC 5k road race was held on Tuesday the 27th of December 2022 and got a big turnout of 564 runners. I thought with the wet weather, the numbers might be down this year but no, they were up 14% on last year.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Evan Byrne Togher AC     15:07 SM 789
2 Frank O'Brien East Cork AC     15:19 SM 484
3 John Durcan Togher AC     15:23 SM 178
10 Aoife Cooke Eagle AC     16:12 SF 95
30 Hannah Steeds Leevale AC     17:24 SF 715
40 Carol Finn Leevale AC     18:01 SF 189

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) Mick Dooley has two galleries... a) Pre-race and b) Post-race

2) Colette Ryan of Togher AC has several galleries... a) Registration b) Start line c) Finish line d) Post race 

First 3 women in the Togher AC 5k on Tues 27th Dec 2022 (L-R)... Carol Finn Leevale AC 3rd, Aoife Cooke Eagle AC 1st & Hannah Steeds Leevale AC 2nd

Sunday, December 25, 2022

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sun 25th December 2022



There were 3 special 5k parkruns in Co Cork on Sunday 25th December 2022

Ballincollig Regional Park: 231 took part
.
First 3 men & women...
1 Colm FITZGERALD Male SM25-29 17:15
2 Brian THOMPSON Male SM18-19 17:26
3 Govinda O'SULLIVAN Male SM25-29 Eagle A.C. 17:43
6 Lizzie LEE Female VW40-44 Leevale AC 18:31
14 Rachel LEDWITH Female JW11-14 Belgooly AC 19:57
19 Gail MURRAY Female VW45-49 Belgooly AC 20:19


Glen River: 62 turned out

First 3 men & women... 
1 Tobi GRAB Male VM45-49 Leevale AC 19:18
3 Donal COAKLEY Male VM35-39 Leevale AC 20:00
4 Cathal O'CONNELL Male VM55-59 St Finbarrs AC 20:08
2 Michelle KENNY Female VW40-44 Leevale AC 19:33
10 Rhona DEMPSEY Female VW40-44 St Finbarrs AC 22:42
19 Sadhbh KELLEHER Female SW25-29 24:49


Clonakilty: ... 20 turned out for this one.

1 Diarmuid Ó SÚILLEABHÁIN Male VM40-44 Leevale AC 20:23
2 Timothy O DONNELL Male VM45-49 Crusaders Athletic Club 20:38
4 Barry KIRBY Male SM25-29 23:19
3 Deirdre MCCARTHY Female VW40-44 Manchester Tri Club 22:43
8 Susan STEELE Female VW45-49 26:14
14 Katie HARTE Female SW30-34 28:52

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 24th December 2022



Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 24th December 2022. Approx 760 runners and walkers took part in the 10 events in Co Cork.

Ballincollig Regional Park: 225 this week, 216 last week. Long term average 289
.
First 3 men & women...
1 Unknown
2 Sean TWOHIG Male SM30-34 St Finbarrs AC 17:44
4 John O MAHONY Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 18:13
3 Michelle KENNY Female VW40-44 Leevale AC 17:58
13 Teresa MURPHY Female VW45-49 Kent AC 19:30 
16 Nollaigh O'NEILL Female VW50-54 Leevale AC 19:47


Tramore Valley Park: 135 runners took part in this event. - last week. The long term average is 162.

First 3 men & women...
1 Shane COONEY Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 17:57
2 Ben O'SULLIVAN Male JM15-17 18:14
3 Tobi GRAB Male VM45-49 Leevale AC 18:26
8 Joyce WOLFE Female VW40-44 Leevale AC 19:53
10 Lorna WOLFE Female VW35-39 Leevale AC 20:42
13 Helen WALSH Female VW45-49 Togher AC 20:59


Glen River: 65 this week, cancelled last week. The long term average is 76.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Richard BOURKE Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 20:11
2 John KISSANE Male VM55-59 UCC Staff Athletics Club 20:55
3 Michael NAUGHTON Male VM50-54 Volunteers parkrun Club (Unofficial) 21:22
14 Evelyn MULLINS Female VW55-59 Serpentine RC 24:33
16 Fi OMEARA Female VW40-44 25:30
17 Angela MCKENZIE Female VW40-44 25:41


Mallow Castle: 76 finishers this week, - last week. The long term average is 66.

First 3 men & women...
1 Simon BERNARD Male VM40-44 Wimbledon Windmilers 18:49
2 Ronan MOYNIHAN Male VM40-44 Crusaders Athletic Club 18:54
3 Ken O' MAHONY Male VM35-39 Togher AC 19:12
6 Emma FLYNN Female JW11-14 North Cork AC 19:47
10 Marie KELLY Female SW30-34 St Finbarrs AC 21:02
11 Michaela FLYNN Female JW11-14 North Cork AC 21:24


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 75 this week, - last week. The long term average is 63.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Micheal CRONIN Male SM30-34 18:38
2 James MAHER Male SM30-34 19:06
3 Donal FALLON Male VM40-44 Mt. Hillary AC 20:01
6 Chloe MCCARTHY Female JW11-14 Midleton AC 21:24
19 Susan DINEEN Female VW40-44 25:04
20 Saoirse KINSELLA Female JW11-14 25:04

Macroom Desmense: 46 this week, - last week. Long term average is 52.

First 3 men & women...
1 Finn YORE Male JM11-14 West Muskerry A.C. 19:03
2 Jude MURPHY Male JM15-17 20:39
3 Diarmuid HOLLAND Male VM50-54 21:23
9 Valerie NEVILLE Female VW40-44 23:46
14 Saoirse TWOMEY Female JW15-17 24:47
18 Noreen STEWART Female VW40-44 25:37


Clonakilty: 23 finishers this week, 24 last week. Long term average 37.

First 3 men & women...
1 Naoise Ó FLAITHEARTAIGH Male SM20-24 17:14
2 Oscar DEVINE-WRIGHT Male SM20-24 17:43
3 Sean DINNEEN Male SM30-34 18:17
17 Susan STEELE Female VW45-49 26:12
18 Hannah DW Female VW50-54 26:49
19 Aoibhínn RICE Female JW11-14 28:04


Glengarriff Woods: There were 51 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. It was - last week, long term average is 58.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Darragh COPPINGER Male JM11-14 21:36
2 Stephen O'SULLIVAN Male VM50-54 21:43
3 Angus YELLOWLEES Male SM25-29 21:44
10 Tamela MACIEL Female SW30-34 West End Runners 22:51
22 Pippa O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 26:46
25 Deirdre O'BRIEN Female VW45-49 Bantry Athletic Club 26:58


Bere Island: 21 this week, 15 last week, long term average of 46. 

First 3 men & women...
1 Vincent O SULLIVAN Male VM40-44 20:58
2 Asier GARRIDO Male VM35-39 21:32
4 Morgan O SULLIVAN Male VM45-49 26:01
3 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 25:13
5 Elaine O DRISCOLL Female VW40-44 29:43
6 Mya O SULLIVAN Female JW10 30:02


Castlehaven: 32 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. - last week. Long term average 29.

First 3 women & men...
1 Donal COLLINS Male VM45-49 Bweeng Trail Blazers 20:24
2 John CRONIN Male VM35-39 Galway City Harriers 20:58
3 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 21:45
7 Deirdre MCCARTHY Female VW40-44 Manchester Tri Club 24:19
10 Catherine AIREY Female SW25-29 Highgate Harriers 26:06
14 Anne-Marie GREEN Female VW55-59 27:41

Friday, December 23, 2022

Friday Jigsaw: Mallow AC at the Newmarket 5k


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a photo of some members of Mallow AC at the recent Newmarket 5k road race.

It has 117-pieces and can be found HERE

Extra 5k parkruns in Cork over the Christmas period - 24th Dec 2022 to 1st Jan 2023


Martin Walsh from the Glen River crew put this graphic together showing the 5k parkruns in Co Cork over the Christmas period.

Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve are on a Saturday so they'll be business as usual with the events going ahead at 9:30am. Six out of the ten parkruns have to decided to put on an extra parkrun on Christmas Day and / or New Years Day. Again, all events start at 9:30am.

If you're interested in doing an extra event then be sure to confirm the day before that it is going ahead.

Links to all of the 5k parkruns in Co Cork can be found HERE  

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Irish Runner runs 2:53 marathon in the Antarctica


One of the most remarkable results last weekend was that of Tipperary man Sean Tobin who ran a marathon in the Antarctic in a time of 2 hours 53 minutes and 33 seconds, a new record for that continent. Amazingly, it was also Sean's debut marathon!

The marathon was held on a glacier about 900kms from the South Pole with the temperature down at a chilly -14 deg C. 

Report from Clonmel AC... "Sean Tobin’s brilliant Marathon debut

For the majority of athletes, we all strive to compete in the Dublin City Marathon as our first outing over this Classic distance and as they say, you will always enjoy your first marathon experience. Well spare a thought for Sean Tobin who decided to select the Antarctic Ice Marathon, the southernmost marathon in the world as his debut over this distance in sub-zero temperatures, an experience he will always treasure. 

Sean prepared well for this event over the past couple of months. Right from the gun he set a good pace. Despite the demanding conditions, he was still running well within himself when reaching the three-quarter point check in zone in 2 hours 8 mins. At this stage he was well on his way to setting a new course record and smashing the old record of 3 hours 34 mins 12 secs, set in 2019. Sean maintained that strong pace all the way to cross the finishing line in an amazing time of 2 hours 53 mins 33 secs, phenomenal performance in such trying conditions. 

The race director, Richard O Donovan, himself a veteran of such events described Sean’s performance “as an astounding performance in very tough underfoot conditions. Sean took control of the race from the outset and made a mockery of the conditions by establishing a new Antarctic Marathon record of 2:53:33 hrs”

This brilliant performance will see Sean ending 2022 on a high as he puts a year plaque by injury behind him. He can look forward with great confidence to 2023 as he plots the next chapter of his career."


Link : RTE News


Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Kate Veale takes double Gold at the Irish National Racewalking Championships - Dec 2022


Top Irish racewalker Kate Veale from Dungarvan took two national titles at the Irish racewalking championships in Dublin last weekend.

Report from West Waterford AC... KATE VEALE TAKES DOUBLE GOLD AT 123.IE NATIONAL RACE WALKING CHAMPIONSHIPS.

Sunday last saw the last of the national athletics championships for 2022 when the 123.ie sponsored national Senior 20k and 35k and 10k junior were held in St Ann’s Park Raheny and hosted by Raheny Shamrocks AC. 

The event was also a World Bronze medal category event which is important for the athletes competing as points gained go on the ranking tables for other major competitions.In the 35 KM this year the 20 KM was also incorporated both starting together, Kate Veale was defending her 35 km (21.75 miles) title and also defending her 20 km (12.43 miles) crown also. 

She walked very evenly all through and came through the 20 km mark in 1.48.06 to take the gold medal and continued on to complete the double when also taking gold in the 35 km in a good time of 3.09.41. 

This time will set Kate up well over the 35k distance heading into a new year and season, The races were open to athletes from other countries also and in Kate's 20 km race she was second to Noelia Vargas Costa Rica who clocked 1.38.33 and in the 35k she was a close second to Marya Vicentainer Brazil who clocked 3.08.28.

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Notice: Togher 5k road race in Cork City - Tues 27th Dec 2022

The annual Togher 5k is coming up over the Christmas period on Tuesday the 27th of December 2022 at 11am

Reminder: The 20th of December is the last day for entries.


This is always a popular race and is one of the biggest in Cork over Christmas. As 5k courses go, this one is pretty fast and it's mostly around quiet housing estates.

Entries...The online entry fee is €15 and you can enter online HERE

All proceeds from the event go towards Togher AC and Cork Mental Health Foundation.

From Togher AC... Togher AC and Cork mental Health are delighted to be able to hold this years Ryans SuperValu Togher 5k 2022. 

Monday, December 19, 2022

Results & Photos of the Cork BHAA Turkey Trot 5k - Sun 18th Dec 2022


The Cork BHAA closed off the year with their annual Turkey Trot 5k in Blackrock on Sunday the 18th of December 2022 and raised €3750 for Cork Simon in the process. A total of 259 runners took part which is well up on last year when it took a dip.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Conrad Watt 00:17:09
2 Cullen Lynch 00:17:40
3 Alfie Davis 00:18:14
10 Michelle Kenny 00:19:26
13 Linda O'Sullivan 00:19:35
14 Meadhbh Moynihan 00:19:52

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) Derek Costello has 3 galleries...
Start  https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAjyBA
Mile 3 part 1 https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAjAoo
Mile 3 part 2 https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAjDbu








Sunday, December 18, 2022

Results of the Cloyne Commons 4k - Sun 18th Dec 2022


The thaw arrived just in time for the Cloyne 4k road race on Sunday the 18th of December 2022. In contrast to the icy blast of the last 10-days, the mild southerly breeze felt 'almost' tropical.

The price of course is that cold and icy is replaced with mild and wet but at least road races can now go ahead.

The photo above shows Tim O'Donoghue crossing the finish line in first place.

Top 3 men & women...
1 301 Tim O'Donoghue East Cork AC M35 00:12:20
2 313 Conor McCauley Leevale AC M35 00:12:25
3 88 Tony Forrestal Midleton AC M 00:12:42
14 312 Fiona Santry East Cork AC F35 00:14:02
36 318 Lisa Crowley Watergrasshill AC F45 00:15:58
39 148 Eileen Leahy Midleton AC F 00:16:09

Cloyne Commons 4k Series - Race #2 18th December 2022

Full results below...

Guest Post: Gratitude ...by Pat Walsh

 ** A Reflection ** 

It is that time of the year and nice to look back on the year before we turn our attention soon towards 2023. Possibly last post of the year except for some fun and frivolous seasonal stuff.

10 "Be's" to think about and abide by. 🎅 

* Be nice to yourself.

If you are reading this article, then 100% chance you are a runner and that is fantastic. You have done something to improve the quality of your life and you are to be applauded. Keep it going and enjoy it. Don’t be hard on yourself.🎅 

*  Be grateful

Be grateful every day for the health and energy to lace up your runners and go out the door. Many that would like to, cannot for various reasons and never take this for granted. All runners know the high from coming home after a good run in a nice location with decent company. It is fantastic.🎅 

* Be thankful

Thanks to all who have helped me to enjoy running. From my friends who share the road, to the organisers of races and to the many lovely people we meet every time we run. Never leave a race without saying thanks to someone.

* Be Positive

If you can’t say something nice then say nothing. Keyboard warriors who take to social media at every perceived slight can hinder races and destroy the good work that is done. If there is a problem then a quiet call or a 1 to 1 email might be a better course of action. You say it best when you say nothing at all..

* Be Honest

After every major event that you prepared for, look back at what went right and what went wrong for you. It is only by making mistakes and learning that we will improve.

Did I go too fast?
Was my plan not realistic?
Had I enough training done for what I wanted?
Don't worry...!! The person who never made a mistake never did anything.


* Be Considerate

We share the road with so many others doing their best on a daily basis. Smile, maybe say a kind word, offer some support or encouragement. It can make a huge difference. Slow done and help someone, it has its own reward. 

* Be Sociable.

No bother here as most runners are great to drink tea and coffee after a run. Only runners can chat for hours on end during a long run and still go home and remember something they forgot to say.  A problem shared is a problem halved.

* Be Optimistic

Next Year I can and will do better. Is there an option? You must be optimistic and set yourself targets. No goals, no gains. 2023 can be your year.

* Be Happy

Pull out any medals collected during the Year. Maybe put 1 or 2 on the Christmas tree.  Write down the races completed. What other highlights did you have? It was a good Year. We are still running. We are alive.

* Be Thinking

Life is complicated. Running is simple. Running has so many benefits, that it is no wonder that people like to run. Put on the runners and get out there.

Wordsworth:- “ There is nothing more honourable than a grateful heart. “..

Personal note

Thanks again for your continued support, fun and friendship during the year. It is much appreciated. Hope we can have the same for 2023.

Have a lovely Christmas, our first in 3 years without restrictions.

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

#pwr

Saturday, December 17, 2022

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 17th Dec 2022

With the icy conditions, nearly all of the 5k parkruns in Co Cork were cancelled. The parkrun on Bere Island went ahead and I'm not sure if the Castlehaven went ahead or not.

Bere Island... Just 13 turned out - Top 3 men & women...

1 Michelagh MURPHY Female SW18-19 23:10
3 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 25:32
4 Edel MURPHY Female VW55-59 30:21

2 Breandan MURPHY Male SM20-24 24:52
5 John F O SULLIVAN Male VM60-64 32:04
12 Jim ROCHE Male VM65-69 1:00:17


Castlehaven...???

The remaining eight were cancelled.

Friday, December 16, 2022

5k parkruns cancelled in Cork - Sat 17th Dec 2022

The thaw is on the way but it now looks as if it won't arrive until Saturday afternoon. There is still ice on roads and paths and some 5k parkruns may be cancelled.

The first causality is Tramore Valley Park.

1) Tramore Valley Park - CANCELLED
2) Pobalscoil na Tríonóide in Youghal - CANCELLED
3) Glen River - CANCELLED
4) Ballincollig - CANCELLED
5) Glengarriff - CANCELLED
6) Mallow Castle - CANCELLED
7) Macroom  - CANCELLED
8) Clonakilty - CANCELLED

If you're going to one of the other parkruns then check before traveling.

(Refresh the page to see latest)

Update 9am: It looks as if there was rain overnight which turned to ice when it hit the cold ground. The temperature at the weather station on Sherkin Island at the moment is up at 7 deg C so it looks like the only 5k parkruns will be in the far part of West Cork. 

Friday Jigsaw: Newmarket 5k 2022 Start


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a photo from the start of the Newmarket 5k last weekend.

You can find the 126-piece jigsaw HERE

Thursday, December 15, 2022

Guest Post: Cold Weather Running ...by Pat Walsh



 ** Cold Weather Running **
Don't bother.
If you are professional and need to go you will find a way.
If you are like me, an ordinary runner, then a week off is no bother.
The Hospitals are full with sick people and they are struggling. Don't add to their problems and become a statistic.
Eating the Christmas Dinner in a sling or with a crutch just isn't worth it.
It is the season to relax, so relax. 
Very few are in the middle of an intensive training load.
If you can manage a few slow daylight miles great  but otherwise, the couch, the fire, the World Cup.
Next week you can go back to running in windy wet weather 😃 

'In Seed time Learn,
In Harvest Teach,
In Winter Enjoy.. 🥰'
#PWR

Sunday, December 11, 2022

Results & Photos of the Newmarket 5k - Sun 11th Dec 2022

Evan Byrne wins the 2022 Newmarket 5k in a time of 14m 28s 

This was one of the coldest editions of the Newmarket 5k road race in recent times with the temperature hovering just above above 0 deg C. Despite getting a good entry, it seems that some runners decided not to travel on the day probably due to a fear of icy roads.

I was certainly expecting the roads around Newmarket in NW Cork to be a lot worse than Cork City but the opposite seemed to be the case. The race course was actually perfect for the event and the 5k went off without any issues.

A total of 365 runners crossed the finish line which is down 14% on the 424 of 2021 but up 8% on the 337 of 2019.

A total of 174 runners went under 20 minutes which was 48% of the field. It's interesting to note that 35% of the field went sub 20 in 2019 and this increased to 45% in 2021.

Top 3 men & women...

1 Evan Byrne Togher AC     14:28 SM 40
2 Niall Shanahan An Bru AC     14:39 SM 477
4 Gavin O'Rourke Leevale AC     14:52 SM 433
42 Sinead O'Connor Leevale AC     16:27 SF 381
53 Edel Monaghan DCH     16:49 SF 305
56 Hannah Steeds Leevale AC     16:56 SF 502

First wheelchair...
3 Shauna Bocquet Craughwell AC     13:56 Wheelchair 19

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) There are loads of photos up on the Running in Cork Facebook page
a) Pre-race photos
b) Finish line photos 13:56 to 18:30 
c) Finish line photos 18:30 to 23:05 
d) Finish line photos 23:05 plus 

2) Joe Murphy has a few photos HERE

3) Duhallow AC have a gallery HERE

The first woman home was Sinéad O'Connor in a time of 16:27. Olympic rowing champion Paul O'Donovan on the far left was just ahead with the same time.

Shauna Bocquet of Craughwell AC was the first wheelchair athlete

A long way from home... Ray Lahart (246) & David O'Brien (350) of Gowran AC in Kilkenny

...and not so far from home.

Members of Duhallow AC with Olympic Gold medalist & rower Paul O'Donovan who finished the 5k race in a time of 16m 27s


Saturday, December 10, 2022

Cloyne 4k on Sun 11th Dec 2022 cancelled

The Cloyne Commons Challenge 4K due to take place on Sunday the 11th of December 2022 at 9.30am has been postponed. 

This is due to severe weather conditions. 

The date for rescheduled race is Sunday December 18th at 9.30am

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 10th December 2022



Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 10th December 2022. With the icy conditions, several of the events were cancelled. A total of 289 runners and walkers took part in the 7 events in Co Cork.

Ballincollig Regional Park: 134 this week, 216 last week. Long term average 290
.
First 3 men & women...
1 Sean O BRIEN Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 18:02
2 Jason NICHOL Male VM40-44 19:09
3 Edward AHERN Male SM25-29 19:47
13 Helen WALSH Female VW45-49 Togher AC 21:18
20 Mairead PEREZ Female VW50-54 22:13
21 Jane OCONNOR Female SW20-24 22:17


Tramore Valley Park: 124 runners took part in this event. Last week was cancelled. The long term average is 163.
First 3 men & women... CANCELLED
Tramore Valley Park results... 

Glen River: 53 this week, cancelled last week. The long term average is 76.
First 3 men & women... CANCELLED
Glen River results... 

Mallow Castle: 38 finishers this week, 52 last week. The long term average is 66.

First 3 men & women...
1 Bryan VILLIERS Male SM30-34 19:42
2 Donal FALLON Male VM40-44 Cork Mental Health AC 21:41
3 Liam MCSWEENEY Male JM11-14 21:43
10 Johannah MCSWEENEY Female JW10 24:08
12 Aoife MCSWEENEY Female SW20-24 24:32
14 Clodagh BENNETT Female VW40-44 26:12


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 54 this week, 27 last week. The long term average is 63.
First 3 men & women... CANCELLED
Youghal results... 

Macroom Desmense: 22 this week, 38 last week. Long term average is 52.

First 3 men & women...
1 Finn YORE Male JM11-14 West Muskerry A.C. 18:23 
2 Conor LUCEY Male VM35-39 18:36
3 Peter HOWARD Male VM40-44 21:01
13 Carmel PURCELL Female VW45-49 West Muskerry A.C. 26:40
14 Marie MCCARTHY Female VW45-49 27:15
15 Maria NEVILLE Female VW50-54 28:10


Clonakilty: 23 finishers this week, 24 last week. Long term average 37.

First 3 men & women...
1 Rían FITZGERALD Male JM11-14 21:40
2 Colm O'SULLIVAN Male VM55-59 Bishopstown Orienteering Club 22:09
3 Barry RYAN Male VM40-44 23:09
10 Sandra WALSH Female VW50-54 27:37
12 Karin CONNOLLY Female VW50-54 Bishopstown Orienteering Club 28:05
14 Rhiannon WEBBY Female SW25-29 33:25


Glengarriff Woods: There were 45 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. It was 54 last week, long term average is 59.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Stephen O'SULLIVAN Male VM50-54 21:58
2 Iarla MCELHINNEY Male JM10 23:39
3 Tom FARLEY Male VM45-49 23:40
8 Pippa O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 25:02
13 Jacquie O'SULLIVAN Female VW40-44 27:21
14 Brede FLYNN Female VW40-44 29:03


Bere Island: 12 this week, 26 last week, long term average of 46. 

First 3 men & women...
1 Billy MORIARTY Male JM11-14 St Brendan's AC Ardfert 24:55
2 Garry MORIARTY Male VM45-49 25:21
4 Breandan MURPHY Male SM20-24 25:48
3 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 25:36
5 Claire MORIARTY Female VW40-44 45:44
6 Edel MURPHY Female VW55-59 45:44


Castlehaven: 15 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 16 last week. Long term average 29.

First 3 women & men...
1 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 21:39
2 Unknown 
3 Unknown
7 Celine BUCKLEY Female VW50-54 Castlehaven GAA 32:00
8 Emma GEARY Female SW25-29 32:20
9 Therese LYNCH Female VW60-64 33:28

Guest Post: The Hamster Wheel ...by Pat Walsh

 ** The Hamster Wheel **

I don’t know if this post is about running or about life in general. 2 years ago our world took an unexpected turn and life changed overnight. We were limited in our range of movement and who we could meet with. It was an instant change with no preparation. 

Now, as we have come slowly out the other side and face into the prospect of a Normal Year ahead, what do you want for yourself?

Many have jumped back on board the Hamster Wheel and spinning it faster than ever, trying to get more done than ever before. Remember some of the good things of the crisis, where we had time for ourselves, time to think, time to evaluate what was important in our lives. 

Now all I hear from some is,
I have no time to meet friends.
I have no time to train.
I have no time for myself and do the things I want to do.
I’m always tired.
I can’t meet for a cuppa.
How did this happen so fast? Was nothing learned? Are we crazy?

We have spoken about falling numbers running and at races, but if people don’t get time to train and prepare then it is only natural that they will not race. There are a multitude of other factors in play. Expense, lack of confidence, lack of the ‘Old Social cuppa’ at a race, some lingering fear of crowds and crowded spaces. 

All very natural and each will take time to sort.


But I suppose the main point of my post is for you to question yourself about whether you are getting some time per week for yourself and what you want to do, or has life overtaken you and consumed your passion for running?

If running is your scene give yourself the opportunity to participate. If you were lost to running and no longer enjoy it, then find what you want to do and what makes you happy. 

You have a New Year approaching, what do you want from it and will you give yourself a chance to get it.

Make the Hamster Wheel turn at YOUR pace and stepping off from it from time to time to enjoy and live your life.  

Folks we get one shot at this. 

#PWR

Friday, December 09, 2022

Several 5k parkruns in Cork cancelled - Sat 10th Dec 2022

With the current cold snap and icy conditions, some of the 5k parkruns in Co Cork on Saturday 10th of December 2022 have decided to cancel.

a) Tramore Valley Park - CANCELLED

b) Glen River - CANCELLED

c) Youghal - CANCELLED

If you're going to one of the other parkruns then check before traveling.

Friday Jigsaw: TVP 5k parkrun - Dec 2022


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a photo of Mick Dooley & Co at the Tramore Valley Park 5k parkrun last Saturday 3rd Dec 2022. It looks as if it was a lot milder than next weekend!

You can find the 70-piece jigsaw HERE

Wednesday, December 07, 2022

Cork runners win Waterford AC Half-Marathon - Sat 3rd Dec 2022

Ryan Creech (L)... winner of the 2022 Waterford AC Half-Marathon

The big road race in Munster last weekend was the Waterford AC Half-Marathon which was held on Sat 3rd Dec 2022. A total of 1894 runners took part which makes it one of the largest in the province.

Two Cork runners were to the fore on the day with Ryan Creech finishing first and Aoife Cooke winning the women's race. Looking through the results, a lot of runners from Cork took part in this event.

Top 10 men & women...
1 Ryan CREECH 01:05:02 01:05:02 2472 M MS Leevale AC
2 Yared DERESE 01:05:49 01:05:50 2480 M M40 Carrick Aces AC
3 Sergiu CIOBANU 01:07:18 01:07:19 285 M MS Clonliffe Harriers
4 Tudor MOLDOVAN 01:09:16 01:09:17 1469 M MS Clonliffe Harriers
5 Conor MCCAULEY 01:09:16 01:09:17 1369 M MS Leevale AC
6 Tomas FITZPATRICK 01:11:40 01:11:41 702 M M40 Tallaght AC
7 Cillian O'LEARY 01:11:47 01:11:48 1787 M M40 Raheny Shamrock AC
8 Noel MURPHY 01:12:03 01:12:03 2549 M MS Waterford AC
9 Vivian FOLEY 01:12:20 01:12:21 2413 M M50 Eagle AC
10 Paul DORAN 01:12:31 01:12:32 569 M M40 United Striders
1 Aoife COOKE 01:12:58 01:12:58 2515 F F35 Eagle AC
2 Fiona KEHOE 01:19:31 01:19:31 1081 F F40 Kilmore AC
3 Aoife O'LEARY 01:21:31 01:21:32 1788 F F40 Sportsworld RC
4 Sally FORRISTAL 01:22:13 01:22:14 761 F FS St Joesphes AC
5 Catherine O'CONNOR 01:22:31 01:22:33 1694 F F45 Sli Cualann AC
6 Angela MCCANN 01:22:07 01:22:37 1345 F F50 Clonmel AC
7 Megan MCCARTHY 01:23:24 01:23:28 1366 F FS
8 Adele WALSH 01:23:50 01:24:09 2301 F F45 St Senans AC
9 Linda O'SULLIVAN 01:24:28 01:24:38 2471 F F50 Watergrashill AC
10 Elle O'DRISCOLL 01:24:52 01:25:08 1739 F FS Liffey Valley AC

Full results HERE

Aoife Cooke... First woman

The numbers were down about 15% on the last outing in 2019 which seems to be about the norm now for a lot of races.


Photos...
1) Waterford AC have a gallery HERE