The third race in the Slaney Olympic Open Trail Race series took place on Gibbet Hill near Bunclody on Sunday last in glorious May sunshine.
After a tribute to Ger Clancy delivered by Paul Murphy the runners set off on the seven mile course on forest tracks. The first three miles of the seven mile course had just a couple of short climbs tempting the runners to push out the pace. The next three however have two tough climbs before the last rapid one mile descent.
Martin Monoghan, who had finished third on the Kilbrannish race two weeks ago, ran a strong race finishing two minutes ahead of the rest of the field in 44.36, just 32 seconds outside the record. In second place was Mick Hanney of Annacurra (his 4th race in 8 days including the gruelling Croagh Patrick…you think the trail race was tough!) followed by Dublin hill runner Des Kennedy.
The next six places were dominated by Wexford/Slaney Olympic runners. Edward White finished 4th with Chris Squance on his heels in 5th place and Niall O’Connor (well known on the mountains) just 15 seconds behind in 6th. First lady, Aoife Joyce of Crossabeg (who also won last year) finished in seventh place overall.Mick Nolan ran well finishing in 11th position. Ger Murphy finished 17th.
Louise Nolan (cheered on by Dominic) was 7th lady. Lar Doyle (with the annual bad leg) won the over 50 category. Another Wexford man, Jim Boland, who celebrated his 60th birthday last week won M60.
There was a great turnout from the Kavanagh Clan on their first outing on the Trails. Bill finished in 9th position, just 22 seconds behind Paul Murphy. Lucky Garret finished 13th. Deirdre and Lisa (on her first EVER run) finished well and even claimed to enjoy the experience!
Special thanks to all the helpers, Bridget the reliable, Edel the photographer, with, of course, a very special mention to THE WATERBOYS, Rian and Caolan Monaghan.
After the race it was back to Ryans Moss House in Bunclody for prizegiving and refreshments. The next trail race is being run in conjunction with Kilmore AC on grassy tracks over the sand dunes in Kilmore Quay at 7pm on 19th June. This will be a four mile, two lap course with a short junior race beforehand and, weather permitting, a barbeque afterwards in the dunes. So put the “Dunes in June” in your diary.
RESULTS [table “” not found /]
