Thanks to all the athletes that turned up on a smashing evening for the first race in the series.  44 runners took part which was nice from our perspective as the full quota of 85 might have been a pinch!! 

First home was Patricia Walshe who managed to "survive" in her hare role – holding on for a gritty finish to just edge it ahead of Maria McArdle in a time of 33:40. These two led from the front for the entire race which is not an easy thing to do.  In 3rd  was Mary Loughnane and actually Aine Rooney as well who crossed the finish line arm in arm (but someone has to win so we gave Mary the nod).

Fastest on the night was Johnny Lane (17:26) tracked by Darragh O'Brien (18:01).  Though this was a good performance, the lads might have overestimated their form a bit by starting off a 16:19 handicap!

This was a good start to the series – many people beat the time they set in the Craughwell 5k in May which is what it's all about.  Those that beat their handicap this week will find themselves with a shiny new handicap for next week so don't get too cocky – there's a long way to go yet!!

Also 177 euro was collected for the Order of Malta – we'll have the tub at all the races in case you want to run faster by lightening the pockets a tad 🙂