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Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Notice: Cork BHAA MTU 5k - Sun 5th March 2023



The Cork BHAA MTU 5k is coming up on Sunday the 5th of March 2023 at 11am. MTU is of course the new name for the CIT in Bishopstown.

The entry fee is just €5 for registered BHAA runners and €10 for non-registered. You enter on the morning of the race.

There will also be a free MTU snood for the first 400 to register on the morning of the race.

Update: 28th Feb 2023... See below for the latest updates including a look at the new MTU arena, decision to donate part of the entry fee to the UNICEF earthquake appeal and a request for donation of good used runners or running tops.

Results & Photos of the Adare 10k - Sun 26th Feb 2023


Another big race last weekend (Sun 26th Feb 2023) was the ever popular Adare 10k in Co Limerick where there 773 finishers. This is one of the most popular races in Limerick and sold out months ago.

Looking through the results, there were loads of runners from Co Cork taking part as well.

You can find links to the results and loads of photos here... https://munsterrunning.blogspot.com/2023/02/results-photos-of-adare-10k-sun-26th.html

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Results of the Kinsale 10-mile - Sun 26th Feb 2023

First place for Hannah Steeds in the Kinsale 10-mile with a time of 60m 43s


 Kinsale 10 Mile 2023

Top 3 men & women...
1. 690 Tim O Donoghue m East Cork A.C. M18-39 00:50:43  
2. 555 Tudor Mircea m Clonliffe Harriers A.C. M18-39 00:52:51  
3. 334 Pat Hennessy m West Waterford A.C. M18-39 00:53:13
18. 920 Hannah Steeds f Leevale A.C. F18-39 01:00:43  
29. 267 Breda Gaffney f Mallow A.C. F50-54 01:03:32  
31. 462 Jean Lucey f F18-39 01:03:45

Full results HERE

Photos.... 

1) Joe Murphy has loads of photos just after the start... Album 1 ... Album 2 ... Album 3 ...Album 4 ...Album 5 ...Album 6 ...Album 7 

2) Derek Costello has these albums...

Results & Photos of the Killeagh 4-mile road race - Sun 26th Feb 2023

First place & a time of 19:18 for Michael Harty of East Cork AC

A total of 213 runners turned out for the annual Killeagh 4-mile road race which was held on Sunday the 26th of February. Conditions were pretty good for this race with cool conditions and a stiff easterly breeze for the second half.

Looking at the stats, the numbers were up a fraction on last year... 213 v 209 ...so that's a good sign. Like the Carrigaline race last week, the new Athletics Ireland 'One-Day Licence' for non-club runners doesn't seem to have had much of an impact on the numbers taking part.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Michael Harty East Cork AC     19:18 SM 204
2 James Mccarthy East Cork AC     20:38 SM 199
3 John Meade St Finbarrs AC     20:49 SM 179
17 Michelle Kenny Leevale AC     23:19 SF 147
20 Sharon Rynne Glanmire     23:52 SF 158
29 Rachel Murphy Plant Based AC     25:19 SF 92

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) There are three galleries up on the Running in Cork Facebook page.
a) A few photos before the start of the race
b) Finishers under approx 32-mins
c) Finishers over approx 32-mins

Michelle Kenny & Mary Sweeney before the start of the 2023 Killeagh 4-mile road race. Michelle would go on to win the race in a time of 23:19


Saturday, February 25, 2023

Notice: IMRA Nagles Trail Marathon & Half-Marathon - Sat 11th March 2023


Entries close at 6pm on the 26th of Feb for the IMRA Trail Marathon & Half-Marathon near Mallow..

Trail Half-Marathon
COUNTY: Cork
DATE: Saturday 11 March, 2023
TIME:11:00 
CLIMB (M):750 
DISTANCE (KM): 21.00
MARKING: Route fully marked - Route fully marked
GPS ALLOWED: Yes
ENTRY COST:€30

Info & entry - https://imra.ie/events/view/id/2267

Trail Marathon
DESCRIPTION: Nagles Marathon
COUNTY: Cork
DATE: Saturday 11 March, 2023
TIME: 09:00 
CLIMB (M): 1330
DISTANCE (KM): 42.10
RACE MARKING: Only major junctions marked - Only major junctions marked
COST:€40

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 25th February 2023



Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 25th February 2023. Approximately 887 runners and walkers took part in the 10 events in Co Cork.

Ballincollig Regional Park: 255 this week, 255 last week. Long term average 288

First 3 men & women... 
1 Justin RYAN Male SM30-34 19:12
2 Eoghan CORMICAN Male SM30-34 19:20
3 Denis O'NEILL Male VM45-49 19:37
4 Ella COLLINS Female JW15-17 Bandon AC 19:39
8 Helen WALSH Female VW45-49 Togher AC 20:17
18 Mairead PEREZ Female VW50-54 21:59


Tramore Valley Park: 199 runners took part in this event. 192 last week. The long term average is 168.

First 3 men & women...
1 Ben LEEN SMITH Male SM20-24 Leevale AC 15:16
2 Tommy CONNOLLY Male SM20-24 15:34
3 Andrew HOBBS Male SM30-34 Leevale AC 16:35
19 Sorcha KEARNEY Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 20:50
20 Jean KEYES Female VW40-44 20:59
23 Clodagh CREEDON Female VW40-44 21:32


Glen River: 89 this week, 79 last week. The long term average is 76.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Jp TREACY Male VM35-39 St Finbarrs AC 19:27
2 Seamus LEDDY Male VM40-44 Abbey Runners Leeds 19:33
3 Cathal O'CONNELL Male VM55-59 St Finbarrs AC 21:31
23 Siobhan O'DONOGHUE Female SW30-34 25:17
28 Yan ZHANG Female VW35-39 Sanctuary Runners 26:34
29 Imelda LYONS Female VW40-44 26:46


Mallow Castle: 69 finishers this week, 59 last week. The long term average is 67.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Tomás KIELY Male JM11-14 North Cork AC 17:57
2 Conor LAVERY Male SM20-24 19:47
3 Kieran TWOMEY Male VM55-59 20:41
11 Orla NOLAN Female VW50-54 Dromahane Roadrunners 23:02
15 Ciara KIELY Female JW11-14 North Cork AC 23:36
16 Eimear LAVERY Female JW15-17 North Cork AC 23:42


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 47 this week, 70 last week. The long term average is 63.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Cian O'CONNELL Male SM25-29 20:19
2 Eoin COYNE Male SM30-34 22:11
3 Chris MC CARTHY Male VM45-49 23:20
5 Susan DINEEN Female VW40-44 23:59
7 Kathleen O REGAN Female VW35-39 24:17
8 Martha MORRISON Female VW45-49 24:42


Macroom Desmense: 54 this week, 59 last week. Long term average is 52.

First 3 men & women...
1 Conor LUCEY Male VM35-39 18:04
2 Matt MURPHY Male JM15-17 20:44
3 Brian LINEHAN Male VM60-64 20:56
8 Jennifer RING Female VW40-44 22:54
12 Lisa KINGSTON Female SW18-19 24:05
13 Aoife DOWNEY Female SW18-19 24:18


Clonakilty: 35 finishers this week, 53 last week. Long term average 36.

First 3 men & women...
1 Mícheál Ó SÉ Male VM40-44 18:00
2 Jerry MCCARTHY Male JM15-17 20:24
3 Shane WINTERS Male JM11-14 20:27
9 Anna O'NEILL Female VW50-54 24:00
10 Sandra WALSH Female VW50-54 24:39
15 Katie HARTE Female SW30-34 26:45


Glengarriff Woods: There were 71 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. It was 91 last week, long term average is 59.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Danny MANNING Male VM45-49 21:37
2 Maurice LAWTON Male VM50-54 Durrus Athletic Club 22:12
4 Christy O SULLIVAN Male VM55-59 23:08
3 Ciara TIERNEY Female SW30-34 Tralee Triathlon Club 22:50
9 Pippa O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 24:36
14 Breda MCELHINNEY Female VW55-59 25:40


Bere Island: 34 this week, 43 last week, long term average of 45. 

First 3 men & women... 
1 Ben MURPHY Male VM40-44 21:34
3 Edward SMITH Male VM60-64 Dunshaughlin AC 24:21
6 John ELPHICK Male VM50-54 29:42
2 Michelagh MURPHY Female SW18-19 23:45
4 Mags O NEILL Female VW45-49 Beara AC 27:14
5 Carol HURLEY Female VW50-54 Beara AC 27:27


Castlehaven: 34 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 25 last week. Long term average 29.

First 3 women & men...
1 Simon NOLAN Male VM35-39 18:12
2 Padraig COURTNEY Male VM40-44 20:03
3 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 21:01
11 Catherine AIREY Female SW25-29 Highgate Harriers 25:05
15 Anne-Marie GREEN Female VW55-59 27:10
17 Frances LYNCH Female VW60-64 Sanctuary Runners 29:07


For more information about the weekly 5k parkruns in Co Cork, go to this page HERE.

Guest Post: Thanks ...by Pat Walsh

 ** Thanks **


Many thanks to all who liked, commented and messaged last weekend. Being 60 isn’t too bad as long as I don’t start acting to the norms of my age group. Special gratitude to all who ran with me on the day and wined and dined afterwards. 


It was a special day I will always remember. Running from Cork to Midleton for the first time was magical.  It just takes longer to recover though.


It was a coincidence that RTE screened a program this week entitled ‘SuperAgers’. Recommended viewing for everyone.

The secret to a long an active life is,
Daily exercise.
A good social network of like-minded and supporting people.
A positive attitude and living in the moment.
Knowing how to laugh and not be too serious with yourself.

They could have been writing my philosophies and the thoughts that I have been pushing in this page for a long time. The exercise can be anything, walking, gardening, rowing, running. In fact it is described as doing anything but sitting on the couch. Yes there was an 80+ who still boxes and a 90yr old man who practices decathlon in his own garden. 

My favourite bit: dancing in your own kitchen is allowed. I’m vindicated. The clip of a 98 year old lady dancing to Barry White is priceless. ‘My first, my last, my everything’……

So just shift your arse and move. Maybe this is supposed to be a running page but the older I get, the more I want it to be a healthy page. I will try to still help runners as best I can, but be open to all forms of exercise and health tips. 

I hope to continue to run for many years to come and will meet and greet many of you for a long time yet. There are lots of pages with super advice for the 10-20% that are competitive. I will try to cater for the others.

Move anywhere and anytime you can. Get outside and take time to appreciate the beauty of nature. The sparrow-hawk in mid flight ( SW 😃 ), the daffodils blooming, the newly ploughed field. Beauty is all around if you take the time and interest to find it. 

Pic attached was taken on a walk last Wednesday.


Question for those who organise races. 

Do the older age groups have to be competitive? I’m happy to be running. Encourage me. I don’t need a prize. I’m happy I can run. Many more like me.

Why not shift emphasis towards participation? You have races to generate funds, the results might surprise you. It is worth trying. Following what everyone else does, isn’t always the right thing. It may reward you to buck the system for a change.

Keep the date

Feb 2033 my 70th birthday run will be 3km on a  Greenway somewhere. The use of electric scooters will be permitted. 😃 Life is too short to be serious. Thanks everyone.

Keep on Keeping on. #PWR

Friday, February 24, 2023

Friday Jigsaw: Carrigaline 5-mile 2023


For this weeks online jigsaw, we have a photo taken at the Carrigaline 5-mile road race last Sunday - 19th Feb 2023.

This one has 96-pieces so it's not too hard to solve. You can find it HERE

Notice: Killeagh 4 mile road race - Sun 26th February 2023

This 4 mile race in East Cork is organised by Killeagh Community Healthy Clubs Project in association with Youghal AC. It will be held this year on Sunday the 26th of February 2023 at 11am.



Online entries HERE

Update Fri 24th Feb: Online registration to the annual Killeagh 4mile road race closed at 2pm today Friday, however we will have registration on Sunday morning at the Race HQ at the Kileagh GAA complex between 9.30 and 10.45. Registration on the day is €15 with current registered Athletics Ireland  members on production of membership number is €13 and with juveniles €10 (U18 but 15 or older on the day of the race) 
Also our walk takes place at 10am this is on a quiet level  route with restricted traffic and is ideal for all age groups and families. 
We are really looking forward to a great morning on Sunday with a very promising forecast.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Results & Photos of the IMRA Trail Race in Rahan Woods - Sun 19th Feb 2023


The IMRA Mallow AC Trail Race was held on Sunday the 19th of February 2023 in Rahan Woods near Mallow.

Top 3 men & women...

1 Nick Hogan 654 M40 0:36:34 Cork
2 Diarmuid McNamara 873 M35 0:39:48 Limerick
3 Mark Lenihan 1854 M40 0:39:49 West Limeri... Limerick
4 Michelle Kenny 485 F40 0:39:50 Leevale Cork
8 Jan Corcoran 1327 F40 0:41:23 Le Chéile Kildare
14 Lorraine Bolster 1819 F40 0:42:20 Mallow AC Cork

Full results HERE 

Photo: Mariusz Luczak c/o IMRA

Photos...
1) There is a nice gallery on the IMRA website HERE
2) IMRA have two galleries up on their Facebook page... during the race ... and ... post race.

Monday, February 20, 2023

Training programme for the 2023 Cork City Marathon & Half-Marathon


The Cork City Marathon, Half-Marathon & 10k will be held on Sunday the 4th of June 2023.

I will be starting 18-week programmes for the marathon and 14-week programmes for the half-marathon. If anyone wants a longer lead in time then that's an option as well.

20-weeks starting 16th Jan - €145
18-weeks starting 30th Jan - €133 - Official Marathon start
16-weeks starting 13th Feb - €120

14-weeks starting 27th Feb - €108 - Official Half-Marathon and 10k start

If I coached you in the past then there is a reduced fee.

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

Sunday, February 19, 2023

Results & Photos of the Carrigaline 5-mile road race - Sun 19th Feb 2023

Additional course bonus of €250 for Lizzie Lee for breaking 28-mins

The annual Carrigaline 5-mile road race was held on Sunday the 19th of February 2023 with 326 runners crossing the finish line, that's up 17% on the 278 last year.

The weather conditions this year were pretty much ideal whereas last year was damp so an increase in numbers might be expected. The key point here though is that the additional €2 from the new Athletics Ireland 'One-Day Licence' doesn't seem to have had much of an impact on the numbers in this race.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Pat HENNESSY 00:25:42 576 MS West Waterford A.C.
2 Donal COAKLEY 00:25:58 508 M35 Leevale A.C.
3 John MEADE 00:26:37 631 St. Finbarrs A.C.
8 Lizzie LEE 00:27:43 462 F40 Leevale A.C.
12 Jelena ABELE 00:28:48 478 F35
26 Sharon RYNNE 00:30:19 822 F35 Kilmurray. Ibrick. N.Clare A.C.

Full results HERE

First man - Pat Hennessy of West Waterford AC in a time of 25:42


Photos...
1) There are 3 galleries on the Running in Cork Facebook page..
 
2) Joe Murphy has several nice galleries near the two mile mark 

3) Derek Costello has loads of photos

Saturday, February 18, 2023

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 18th February 2023



Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 18th February 2023. Approximately 925 runners and walkers took part in the 10 events in Co Cork.

Ballincollig Regional Park: 255 this week, 218 last week. Long term average 288

First 3 men & women... 
1 John O MAHONY Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 18:09
2 Sean TWOHIG Male SM30-34 St Finbarrs AC 18:10
3 David BUTLER Male SM30-34 St Finbarrs AC 19:41
5 Nollaigh O'NEILL Female VW50-54 Leevale AC 20:03
22 Mairead PEREZ Female VW50-54 21:37
33 Eileen DUFF Female VW35-39 Cork Track Club 22:43


Tramore Valley Park: 192 runners took part in this event. 197 last week. The long term average is 167.

First 3 men & women...
1 John LONGAN Male SM30-34 St Finbarrs AC 17:08
2 Conor O'NEILL Male VM45-49 18:03
3 Art MAGUIRE Male VM40-44 19:22
6 Sandra MANNING Female VW40-44 Eagle A.C. 20:07
7 Helen WALSH Female VW45-49 Togher AC 20:11
8 Jennifer GOGGIN WALSH Female VW40-44 Carraig na bhFear AC 20:17


Glen River: 79 this week, 62 last week. The long term average is 76.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Brendan MAGUIRE Male VM40-44 18:46
2 Aidan MAHER Male JM15-17 Carraig na bhFear AC 19:19
3 David MAHER Male SM18-19 Carraig na bhFear AC 19:20
10 Niamh SHEEHAN Female VW35-39 Togher AC 22:22
14 Ellie CAFFERKEY Female JW11-14 23:46
30 Danielle Ó FLYNN Female VW35-39 26:44


Mallow Castle: 59 finishers this week, 57 last week. The long term average is 67.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Carol FINN Female SW30-34 19:17
13 Orla NOLAN Female VW50-54 Dromahane Roadrunners 23:38
19 Rosie HARRY Female SW30-34 25:54
2 James BREEN Male VM40-44 Buttevant RC 20:55
3 Darragh NOLAN Male SM18-19 21:25
4 Liam MCSWEENEY Male JM11-14 22:10


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 69 this week, 50 last week. The long term average is 63.

First 3 men & women... 
1 John MURPHY Male VM50-54 18:21
3 Maurice WALSH Male VM35-39 20:03
4 Shane GREENE Male VM40-44 20:26
2 Niamh CRONIN Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 19:48
6 Jodie BRITTON Female VW35-39 Sweatshop Running Community 20:36
9 Maria CRONIN Female VW40-44 St Finbarrs AC 21:33


Macroom Desmense: 59 this week, 69 last week. Long term average is 52.

First 3 men & women...
1 Conor LUCEY Male VM35-39 18:05
2 Henry BROWNE Male VM40-44 18:52
3 Jude MURPHY Male JM15-17 19:17
16 Rachel KELLEHER Female JW15-17 24:55
18 Lisa KINGSTON Female SW18-19 25:08
20 Carmel PURCELL Female VW45-49 West Muskerry A.C. 25:50


Clonakilty: 53 finishers this week, 31 last week. Long term average 36.

First 3 men & women...
1 Mícheál Ó SÉ Male VM40-44 18:29
2 Chris HAYES Male VM35-39 20:29
3 John SLATTERY Male VM40-44 20:43
9 Clodagh CREEDON Female VW40-44 22:25
11 Niamh O'BRIEN Female SW30-34 23:12
17 Kathleen O REGAN Female VW35-39 25:50


Glengarriff Woods: There were 91 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. It was 85 last week, long term average is 59.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Sebastian HELKA Male VM35-39 19:20
2 Patrick DOHERTY Male SM25-29 19:32
3 Ray SMITH Male VM55-59 Kenmare Athletics Club 20:33
12 Alice COPPINGER Female VW45-49 Bantry Athletic Club 23:03
13 Maria HURLEY Female VW60-64 Bantry Athletic Club 23:46
14 Mary MARTIN Female VW40-44 Busrungroup 23:57


Bere Island: 43 this week, 24 last week, long term average of 45. 

First 3 men & women... 
1 Ben MURPHY Male VM40-44 21:23
2 Billy MORIARTY Male JM11-14 St Brendan's AC Ardfert 22:57
3 Garry MORIARTY Male VM45-49 23:00
4 Michelagh MURPHY Female SW18-19 23:33
6 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 24:59
10 Mags O NEILL Female VW45-49 Beara AC 29:13


Castlehaven: 25 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 26 last week. Long term average 29.

First 3 women & men...
1 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 21:19
2 Brendan CROWLEY Male VM40-44 21:59
3 Padraig COURTNEY Male VM40-44 23:54
11 Catherine AIREY Female SW25-29 Highgate Harriers 25:11
12 Emma O' SULLIVAN Female SW30-34 25:29
16 Sharon LEVIS Female VW40-44 27:16


For more information about the weekly 5k parkruns in Co Cork, go to this page HERE.

Guest Post: Functional Fitness ...by Pat Walsh

 ** Functional fitness ** 

This is a term we use to describe our ability to perform each day. Is your general fitness enough to cope with life, work, family, hobbies, gardening, driving and any other functions the day throws at us? It can be age determinate and we have to accept some loss of function as we age but also we must try hard not to let it beat us. Running is the same, where you come to terms with age related performance and where you accept the here and now moment. I cannot repeat what I did 30years ago. I cannot train and compete with those much younger than me. It shouldn’t stop me.

One of the classics of Irish literature is ‘Fiche bliain ag fás’. It is a memoir written in 1933 by Muiris Ó Súilleabháin. He was born on Great Blasket Island. It explains how the life of a man is divided? 

Fiche bliain ag fás. Twenty years growing.
Fiche bliain faoi bhláth. Twenty years in bloom.
Fiche bliain ag cromadh. Twenty years a-stooping
Fiche bliain gur cuma ann nó as. Twenty years declining.

As you read this, then note I’m officially declining from today. Thankfully we have moved on a bit from the sentiments in the book and we can look forward to a more active lifestyle as we age. Life isn’t over at 60 anymore I hope.

What is life but our ability to enjoy the day, take part in activities and hopefully to stay that way for many years to come. Running or any form of physical activity needs to become a lifestyle choice, rather than something you do for a while and then drop. Consistency is better than intensity, participation is better than chasing the pb’s. You get out of life what you put in to it.

I have this thing where I get older but just never wiser,’ Taylor Swift

I’m doing OK, happy where I am and glad of my fitness while displaying a lack of sensibility. Your opinion may differ widely. Thanks to everyone who is reading the post and has supported me on this page. To anyone who has ever said hello or engaged at a race I’m deeply grateful.

Big thanks to my own crew who run with me. Invariably they are younger and help keep me feeling better about myself and to keep driving on. Fun, friendship, hugs and miles are better than any pill or potion to keep you fit and active. Laughing defies the aging process.

A new category awaits me. Did I ever think I would see M60 after my name. Sweet Je**s it’s a scary number. 

Favourite lyrics from ‘Rocky took a Lover’ where 2 homeless people lie on the ground and stare at the stars in the night sky. 

He said 'The sun gives life, and it takes it away
But like all the greats, it'll burn out someday'
She said 'I don't mind, I don't want to get bored
I don't want to end up beached on this shore
I want to be that star' .....BellX1

It could be my mantra. I want to be that star in the sky, I want to live life, I don’t want to be bored, I will burn out sometime. It is the enthusiasm and fun that we get from life is important, not just counting the days and years. Run while you can, PB’s and the watch are for young people. Live while you are living and get the best out of each day.


Todays plan is simple. We get the train to Cork and run back to Midleton. We haven’t done it before so why not. It is only 15 miles. There are lots of new cycle paths to keep us safe and need to be tried out. Life can still throw up new opportunities. Tomorrow I will do something I have never done. May there be many more.

Enjoy your body, use it every way you can
Don't be afraid of it or what other people think of it
It's the greatest instrument you'll ever own
Dance, even if you have nowhere to do it but your own living room
’ Baz

#pwr @  ancient

Friday, February 17, 2023

Results & Photos of the IMRA Mt Hillary 9.5km Trail Race - Sun 5th Feb 2023

First 3 women (L-R)... Anna Borkowska 2nd, Michelle Kenny 1st & Kealey Tideswell 3rd

Just catching up on some recent results. The IMRA Mt Hillary trail race was held near Banteer on Sunday the 5th of February 2023, the same day as the Dungarvan 10-mile.

A total of 113 runners took part in this 9.5km trail race which had a tough 320m of ascent.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Jordan Richards 1387 M 0:41:59 Cork
2 David Sheedy 252 M 0:42:44 Cork
3 Tom Blackburn 627 M55 0:43:35 Mooreabbey Milers Limerick
10 Michelle Kenny 485 F40 0:45:01 Leevale Cork
21 Anna Borkowska 756 F45 0:49:32 Mallow AC Cork
35 Kealey Tideswell 560 F40 0:52:22 Clonmel AC Tipperary

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) IMRA have a gallery HERE

2) Mick Dooley has two galleries... 
a) Start and race photos 
b) Finish line photos

Friday Jigsaw: James Veale at the Dungarvan 10-mile


After the Dungarvan 10-mile road race at the start of February 2023, I put up a lot of photos on the Running in Cork Facebook page. One of the most popular was that of James Veale of West Waterford AC just after the start of the race.

It reached just under 19,000 Facebook accounts so I thought I'd give it another airing as a jigsaw!

This one is pretty easy with just 70-pieces. You can solve it HERE

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Macroom Bypass 10-mile - A missed opportunity???


Back on the 27th of November 2022, local club West Muskerry AC organised a 10-mile and 5k road race on the new Macroom Bypass before it was opened for traffic. The numbers taking part were quite low with 187 finishers in the 5k race and 138 in the 10-mile. See previous post HERE.

I think the event was announced very close to the opening date and there was very little publicity about it.

After the event, I put up a post about the results with a link to some photos. I had a few photos up on Facebook about it and thought no more of it.

I recently had a look at the some of the traffic to the Running in Cork Facebook page and the various posts there. I put up three posts about the Macroom Bypass race on Facebook and the number of Facebook accounts that were reached are shown below.

I know from experience that you don't reach over 57,000 Facebook accounts unless a lot of people are interested in it. I know it helps that the Running in Cork Facebook page has over 18,000 followers but it was reaching a much wider audience with 57,300 , 39,500 and 13,700 accounts for three posts.

My conclusion is that a lot of people were finding out about the bypass race after the event and were interested in it. Was it a missed opportunity? Could it have attracted a lot more runners?

I don't know if anything special is going to happen before the opening of the rest of the Macroom bypass but I suspect there might be a lot of interest in another race before the whole stretch opens for good.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Final push needed to get 3 Junior 2k parkruns in Cork City over the line


In January of 2023, I had a post up about a proposed new 2km parkrun for 4-14 year olds in Clashduv Park in Togher. See post HERE

About a year ago, I had a post up about a new 2k Junior parkrun in Ballinlough. See HERE

Back in 2019, I had a post about a proposed new 2k Junior parkrun in Gurranabraher. See HERE

While the Togher Junior parkrun is a new proposal, the other two have been delayed for various reasons.

Finally, it now looks as if ALL THREE will go ahead in 2023 and there will be three new 2km  Junior parkruns in Cork City! That will bring the total number of Junior parkruns in Cork to five with the Ballincollig and Cobh events already on the calendar.

Help needed... To get this project over the line, they are looking for volunteers.  

This is from Cork Sports Partnership... New Junior Parkrun Clashduv Park Junior Parkrun | Volunteer Call Out

Cork City Council, Cork Sports Partnership, Parkrun Ireland, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare’s plans and developments are well underway to set up a new 2k junior parkrun in Clashduv Park Junior Parkrun in Togher! For this to proceed we need volunteers!! Exciting times ahead as Cork Sports Partnership working together with local partners on 3 new Junior Parkrun sites in the city:

St Mary’s Health Campus, Gurranabraher, Ballinlough Park & Clashduv Park, Togher

If you can help out then send an email to john DOT kissane AT parkrun DOT com

Alternatively, you can fill out the form at the end of the information page HERE

What is junior parkrun? - A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds).​

When is it? - It is held every Sunday at 9:30am.

What does it cost to join in? - Nothing - it's free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don't forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode. If you forget it, you won't get a time.

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

Notice: IMRA Mallow AC 9.2km Trail Race - Sun 19th Feb 2023


The next IMRA trail race is coming up in Rahan Woods to the SE of Mallow on Sunday 19th February 2023 at 11am. The course is 9.2km in length and the overall ascent is 250m.

Enter HERE

This would be suitable for any regular runner who can run 10-miles / 16kms comfortably on the road.

DESCRIPTION: Mallow AC Trail
COUNTY: Cork
DATE: Sunday 19 February, 2023
TIME: 11:00
CLIMB (M): 250
DISTANCE (KM): 9.20
RACE MARKING: Only major junctions marked - Only major junctions marked
GPS ALLOWED: Yes
ENTRY CLOSES: 2023-02-18 18:00:00
ENTRY COST: €7 for seniors, €5 for over 65s and under 18s

ORGANISERS INSTRUCTIONS: Under IMRA rules for competitor's safety, it is mandatory to bring and carry a jacket that is shower and wind proof for the entire race. Any competitor seen not carrying or wearing their jacket at any stage in the race will be disqualified. There are no exceptions to this rule!
You will need to purchase a 2023 imra membership before purchasing this race. There will be parking in the small carpark at the start area and along the road outside the carpark. We will be operating a one way system on this road.. Cars will have to enter this road from the Mallow town side and exit on the Killavullen village side ( please looks a maps section). There will be a 1km kids race ( accompanied with an adult) and 4.4km Junior race which will both start at 10:10am. The main 8.5km race starts at 11am. The race briefing will be at 10:55am at start line. Remember we have 'no waste' policy, please bring your own cup/mug. Thank you. Please respect this beautiful area. No littering.

Monday, February 13, 2023

Notice: Carrigaline 5 mile road race - Sun 19th Feb 2023



Eagle AC are organising their annual 5 mile road race in Carrigaline on Sunday, the 19th of February 2023 at 11am.

The entry link is here... https://eventmaster.ie/event/L8obSp3H76

They will have the hall back this year for number collection beforehand and snacks afterwards. The €15 entry remains the same but is now subject to Eventmaster fees and AAI surcharge.

From the organisers.... Eagle AC is delighted to announce the return of the 34th annual Tommy Ryan Memorial 5 Miler in Carrigaline on February 19th 2023 at 11am.

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Results of the Cloyne Commons 4k - Race 4 - Sun 12th Feb 2023


The 4th race in the Cloyne Commons 4k Challenge Series was held on Sunday the 12th of February 2023. There were 190 finishers which despite the dry weather was down from the 242 back in early January. It's likely the clash of dates with the Cork BHAA 5k in Little Island was a factor in this.

Top 3 men & women...

1 932 Aidan Noone Leevale AC M 13:13
2 985 John Spelman East Cork AC M 13:37
3 873 Peter Howie Ballymore/Cobh AC M 13:41
16 986 Vicky Spiteri Midleton AC F35 15:28
18 831 Lisa Crowley Watergrasshill AC F45 15:38
24 889 Eileen Leahy Midleton AC F 16:13

Full results below...

Results of the Cork BHAA Janssen 5k - Sun 12th Feb 2023


The Cork BHAA Janssen 5k road race was held in Little Island on Sunday 12th February 2023 and attracted a field of 275 runners. This race has been a 6k for the last few years and it was changed to a 5k this year.

As can be seen from the chart above, there was a jump in numbers this year. I think 2020 was down to due to Storm Ciara. 2022 might have been wet as well. The numbers may not be back to the glory days of a few years ago but it's a recovery all the same.

Top 3 men & women...

1 Eric Curran M1 00:15:28 Merck
2 Fergus Nugent 0/40M M2 00:15:40 Mater Private Cork
3 Barry Donovan M3 00:15:50 PM Group
4 Sinead O'Connor 0/35F F1 00:16:09 Dept of Ed F-A-1
20 Michelle Kenny 0/40F F2 00:17:26 Dept of Ed F-A-1
25 Carol Finn F3 00:17:44 Carol Finn Physical Therapy

Full results HERE


Saturday, February 11, 2023

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 11th February 2023



Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 11th February 2023. Approximately 820 runners and walkers took part in the 10 events in Co Cork.

Ballincollig Regional Park: 218 this week, 311 last week. Long term average 288

First 3 men & women... 
1 Ryan MCCARTHY Male SM20-24 17:46
2 Gearoid O FLYNN Male VM40-44 18:00
3 Adam GOULD Male SM25-29 18:33
11 Niamh CRONIN Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 19:55
12 Nollaigh O'NEILL Female VW50-54 Leevale AC 20:07
19 Mairead PEREZ Female VW50-54 21:35


Tramore Valley Park: 197 runners took part in this event. 208 last week. The long term average is 166.

First 3 men & women...
1 Patrick GEARY Male SM25-29 17:48
2 Toby BENHAM Male SM25-29 Crusaders AC Dublin 17:59
3 Sean BLACKBURN Male SM25-29 18:24
23 Jean KEYES Female VW40-44 21:02
30 Siobhan WALSH Female VW40-44 Carraig na bhFear AC 22:00
32 Sandra KEYES Female VW40-44 22:11


Glen River: 62 this week, 58 last week. The long term average is 75.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Ross WATSON Male VM35-39 20:43
2 Garth MORRIS Male VM60-64 Ware Joggers 21:27 
3 Garrett CLERY Male VM40-44 21:54
6 Marissa O CALLAGHAN Female SW30-34 22:39
16 Meagan MILIC Female VW35-39 24:48
17 Sandra WALSH Female VW50-54 24:53


Mallow Castle: 57 finishers this week, 100 last week. The long term average is 67.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Emma FLYNN Female JW11-14 North Cork AC 18:43
5 Michaela FLYNN Female JW11-14 North Cork AC 21:28
13 Mary MURPHY Female VW60-64 St Finbarrs AC 25:54
2 Iain BUCKLEY Male JM11-14 18:47
3 John KELLY Male VM50-54 Mallow AC 19:42
4 Maurice O'BRIEN Male VM40-44 21:12


Youghal: The Pobalscoil na Tríonóide 5k parkrun in Youghal got 50 this week, 59 last week. The long term average is 63.

First 3 men & women... 
1 Gary MCCULLOCH Male VM50-54 20:11
2 Shane GREENE Male VM40-44 20:51
3 Eoin COYNE Male SM30-34 21:33
7 Josephine O SULLIVAN Female VW45-49 23:47
8 Susan DINEEN Female VW40-44 24:18
9 Claire MURPHY Female VW50-54 24:18


Macroom Desmense: 69 this week, 69 last week. Long term average is 52.

First 3 men & women...
1 Jude MURPHY Male JM15-17 19:18
2 Finn YORE Male JM11-14 West Muskerry A.C. 19:19
3 Martin CANTY Male VM40-44 Melbourne Midday Milers 20:40
12 Siobhan HOLLAND Female VW45-49 Eagle A.C. 23:08
17 Mary SWEENEY Female VW60-64 St Finbarrs AC 23:57
18 Marie CONDRON Female VW35-39 23:58


Clonakilty: 31 finishers this week, 42 last week. Long term average 36.

First 3 men & women...
1 Mícheál Ó SÉ Male VM40-44 18:15
2 James REA Male VM35-39 19:06
3 Conor O SULLIVAN Male JM15-17 19:48
12 Katie HARTE Female SW30-34 26:47
14 Lucy CRONIN Female JW11-14 27:16
15 Aisling O'LEARY Female VW35-39 28:57


Glengarriff Woods: There were 85 finishers for this weeks 5k parkrun in Glengarriff Woods. It was 85 last week, long term average is 59.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Michael MCSWEENEY Male VM50-54 Beara AC 22:17
2 Cormac WHOOLEY Male SM30-34 22:46
3 Cathal D'HONDT Male JM11-14 22:56
7 Annmarie BURNS Female VW35-39 23:46
9 Niamh CASEY Female VW35-39 24:13
15 Pippa O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 26:05


Bere Island: 24 this week, 33 last week, long term average of 45. 

First 3 men & women... 
1 Sean O SULLIVAN Male SM25-29 21:36
2 Ben MURPHY Male VM40-44 21:38
4 Breandan MURPHY Male SM20-24 24:21
3 Michelagh MURPHY Female SW18-19 22:46
5 Mags O NEILL Female VW45-49 Beara AC 27:56
7 Joanne SULLIVAN Female VW50-54 29:11


Castlehaven: 26 finishers this week in Rineen Woods. 27 last week. Long term average 29.

First 3 women & men...
1 Florence FITZGERALD Male SM30-34 20:42
2 Ciarán BOUSE Male VM40-44 Eagle A.C. 21:12
3 Barry KIRBY Male SM25-29 23:49
4 Emma O' SULLIVAN Female SW30-34 24:36
7 Sharon LEVIS Female VW40-44 25:33
12 Kathleen O REGAN Female VW35-39 27:08


For more information about the weekly 5k parkruns in Co Cork, go to this page HERE.

Guest Post: I'm in Bits ...by Pat Walsh

 ** I'm in Bits **

Pardon the headline as it is a tongue in cheek comment. 😃

Ran Dungarvan, John Treacy 10 mile last Sunday and had a wonderful day out. The weather was fantastic, ideal for running and I was pleased to pass the test early in the Year. 

I met so many great people, had loads of chats and photos. JohnD of 'Running in Cork' fame decided to make his weekly jigsaw of this picture. Thanks John ( Not ) and I daresay my friends Helen, Helen and Sheila are equally unimpressed. Only messing as your contribution to running in the Cork area and drifting into adjoining counties keeps us all informed and motivated. We will allow you this one. 😃

So if you are bored and nothing to do, then feel free to click on the link and put us back together again. Oh Lord...... your life will never be the same again.  🤩

Just something to think about and this is no reflection whatsoever on the organisers last Sunday of a super day out.

The event was sold out with 3750 entries.
The numbers finishing was 2739 and in that there was probably a few swapped numbers.
How do a 1000 people disappear after paying an entry fee since the start of December?
Have people got tired of racing or maybe lost the love during Covid and not got it back?
Do people underestimate the effort involved in getting to race fitness in a period that includes Christmas?
Did some bow to peer pressure to enter a race that they knew would sell-out and afterwards decided against it?
Has the annual round of coughs, colds, flu and the ever present Covid knocked some people back and not in a condition to race?
We will always have this plus the few that pick up an injury in training. That is the usual and understandable.

Any comments as long as they are respectful are welcome.


If we could answer some of issues we might find a way to help people back to racing. 🥰

Have a great weekend and get out for a run. 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️

Friday, February 10, 2023

Friday Jigsaw: Pat Walsh & Co at the 2023 Dungarvan 10


For this weeks online jigsaw, I have a photo of Pat Walsh & Co at the start of the 2023 Dungarvan 10-mile.

This one has 126-pieces so it's not too hard. You can solve it online HERE

Thursday, February 09, 2023

Togher AC donate €6000 to the Cork Mental Health Foundation


Following the success of the Togher 5k road race last Christmas, Togher Athletic Club were recently able to present a cheque for €6029.80 to the Cork Mental Health Foundation & Housing Association.