** Ballintotis 4 mile Thursday 18th April **
On a Thursday evening how to get 1166 runners to park, register, line-up in zone and start on time must be a logistical nightmare but it was done. It is a narrow road and route but it never seemed crowded.
The course and finish line were expertly marshalled and support was brilliant.
In a rural area with no village except a Church and a Community Centre as the focal point this is phenomenal. Everyone and I mean everyone from the area was involved. I went out to collect my number in the afternoon and ended up there an hour and a half helping to put up the presentation area. Delighted to help, they are some crew of workers.
1000 flags
2000 buns
3000 metres of coloured bunting
4000 sandwiches
Of course there was super running at the front of the race but I only report on the other side. Great crack, plenty banter. Teenage groups mixed with Mothers and Others Gaelic Football teams.
Newcomers and first timers mixed at the back with seasoned slow veterans like myself.
The enthusiasm was palpable and the smiles infectious. You were never alone and never without support.
Vital to keep a watch out for sneaky photographers who might catch you at a weak moment.
Met some buddies from the home village before the race, some running a race for the first time. It's a Miracle, there must be Holy Water in Loughaderra to get some of these running.
Afterwards we had the mandatory cuppa with the chats, pics and tales of glory. If the TV Bake-Off was held out there it would be some competition.
Prize giving went ahead on time but unless there was a prize for biggest bluffer then I had no chance. Well done to all who were called to the stage.
I paraphrase Spancil Hill to have some fun and sum up the event:
And friends assembled there,
The Young, the old,
The brave and the bold,
Their Four mile to fulfill,
At the Ballintotis Community Centre
A mile from Popes Hill”
Have a great weekend
#pwr
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