Lough Lannagh Castlebar was the setting for the first race in the Intersport Elverys 11th Mayo AC 5k series on Tuesday evening May 9.
It was the first race of the club’s popular fundraising series since 2019.
This year’s race was over a newly measured easier course with the only significant uphill gradients in the first kilometre, then it was twice anti-clockwise over the bridge, before the finish within the park near Blackfort Manor entrance.
Conditions were overcast with rain easing as the race progressed.
The 126 finishers were led home by John Courell in 16:33 – a great time by the Ballina AC athlete.
Kilmovee 10k winner Dan Charlton Mayo AC chased him all the way to finish second in an excellent 16:45 and Dan’s clubmate Michael Rocke was third in 17:11.
West of Ireland women’s 10k winner Norah Newcombe Pieterse Mayo AC was first home in the women’s race in 17:59. Norah showed she is in great form, and over the shorter was a clear two and a half minutes ahead of Maura Ginty Sportsworld AC second in 20:34. Maura is a regular competitor in local races and has been a podium finisher in the series many times. Sharon McLoughlin Westport AC was a close third in 20:49
Dan, Michael and Norah led a great turnout by Mayo AC runners.
2023 Series co-ordinator Ann McDonnell was delighted with how well the Castlebar race went and how it fitted in with the development of the Series over the years .
“Following the introduction of Fit4Life nationally in 2008, the Mayo AC series was developed to encourage those new to running to participate in road races.
The series emphasis has always been on the less ‘elite’ of the running community.
Considering all runners finished in under 37 minutes in the Castlebar 5, it’s a testament to how running has become so popular in the community in recent years.”
It was a great start to the four race series, and all finishers will be looking forward to improving their 5k times at the next three races.
Mayo AC Club Chairman John Byrne said
“The club are grateful to everyone who turned out to run or help out with our first Intersport Elvery’s 5k Race Series event in Castlebar. The atmosphere was fantastic despite the weather, and it was heartening to receive such great support from our neighbouring clubs as well as our own members. We look forward to welcoming you all to our 3 remaining events in the series”.
A key objective of the four race series is minimising the impact on the environment – no single use plastic bottles are being used. Water is being provided at the finish line – self service with paper cups.
Well done to the Castlebar 5k race organiser Colette Tuohy and to all the volunteers and club members who helped her manage the event.
PRIZES
There will be an after-party following the last Series race in Foxford on May 30 in the Moy Hotel.
Prizes will be awarded at the after party. There will be a draw for 8 gift
vouchers from all the entrants of all 4 races. if you ran or volunteered in the 4 races your name is in the draw 4 times. Thanks are due to Shaws Commercial as prizes sponsor.
NEXT SERIES RACE
The second Intersport Elverys series race is at Claremorris on Tuesday May 16 at 8pm.
- Registration at Athletics Track F12 KX63 from 6.30pm
- Parking at Athletics Track, and Claremorris AFC
- Start is on road near CBE.
You can check all the Castlebar 5k Results and other series news on www.mayoac.com