There was an exciting finale at the 2010 Vodafone C&C Cellular Mayo AC Road League which concluded on Sunday with the final ninth race, the Westport 5k. Rain and a chilly breeze did not deter the excellent turnout who ran though the grounds of Westport House and round the triangle at the Quay. This was the 12th Annual Road League and another successful series with increasing numbers taking part, especially from the Fit4Life programme. Gerry Ryan (Craughwell AC ) was the race winner in an impressive 15.19 and he also retained the men's race series crown. Roger Barrett (Ballina AC ) finished second in 15.37 and was also second in the league series. In addition he was the worthy winner of the Most Improved Male athlete award based on his performance over the series.
In the women's race Catherine Conway (Mayo AC ) was first home in 17.51 and underlined her recent excellent form. Mary Gleeson (Mayo AC ) was second in 18.11, her consistent form giving her maximum from six races and ensuring she was the women's 2010 winner. Colette Tuohy finished third in 18.51, She was a close second in the league and her strong performances over the year were rewarded with the Most Improved Female athlete title.
Ballina AC collected a number of the men's prizes while Mayo AC women won most of their categories. There was a special award to the women’s team for their achievement in the European Inter Club Cross Country. Sean Dooher was presented with a special achievement award for his continued dedication to athletics.
The 2011 Road League will soon get under way. The first race is Kilmovee 10k in April - details will soon be available on www.mayoac.com
John Byrne second in UK 20k event
In the two months lead up to the London Marathon on April 17, there are more than 20, 20-mile races in the UK. The Reading Roadrunners Annual 20/10 race is one of them. On Sunday, John Byrne (Mayo AC ) finished a brilliant second place in their 20-mile two-lap race held at Bramley. The winner's time was 1.48.17 and John finished in 1.52.19 in a field of 870. He was among a group who lost about a minute due to mis-direction at one point. John is preparing for another ultra event next month, and was very pleased with his race. His time would equate to a sub 2.30 marathon which indicates how good his form is currently and this result will be a big confidence booster for him.
After her 5k PB last week in Cloonacool, Sarah Syron ran in the one-lap 10-mile race held in conjunction and wiped an amazing five minutes off her personal best for this distance, coming home in 84th place overall (13th woman ) in 72.52 in a field of 450. The first woman finished in 62.46.
