Galway athletes won more silverware at the National 10k championships held in a windy Phoenix Park on Sunday.
Veterans Martin Keane of Athenry AC and Martin McEvilly of GCH both claimed national titles.
Keane won gold at O75 level, while Martin McEvilly won gold at O70 level for Galway City Harriers. GCH's first runner home was Timmy Jones in a time of 35.24, ahead of clubmate Michael Kerrin.
Regina Casey of GCH had an outstanding run to place sixth overall in the women's section in a time of 36.56, a run cementing her reputation as one of the top 10k road runners in the country.
Craughwell AC athlete Mark Davis also impressed, clocking a fast 34.09 at O45 level, the fastest Galway time on the day.
GCH Over 50 women's team of Barbara Bergin, Carmel Brannigan and Margaret Sheridan all combined well, with Bergin clocking a fine 45.56 to lead the team to sixth place overall in their category
Connemara Marathon
The Connemarathon series of races were also held on Sunday in stormy conditions around the Inagh Valley and Maam Cross loops. Despite the conditions, almost 2,000 athletes, including hundreds of visitors, completed the course.
The half marathon was won by US visitor Judson Cake in 1.19.04, while Lena Hado of Lorient in France was the first woman home in a good time of 1.27.17.
The full marathon of 26.2 miles saw victory go to Brian Gurrin of Kilcoole AC, in a time of 2 hours 57 minutes, with Jaskiran Buttar the first woman home in 3 hours 24 minutes.
The gruelling ultra marathon over 39.3 miles was won by Stephen Connon of Dublin’s Brothers Pearse AC, in 4 hours 35 minutes, while Jasmin Wonik wimming the ladies' honours in 5 hours 21 minutes.
Upcoming fixtures
Galway City Harriers Fit For Life beginners programme starts Thursday April 25 at 7pm. New runners or those wishing to return are welcome. Registration point is Westside Library in Galway city.
Two of Galway’s biggest summer races are now open for entry – the Headford on July 6 , and the Streets of Galway 8k on August 10 at 7pm.
