After a brief run for shelter from an April shower, the sun came out at noon in the Phoenix Park on Sunday for the National 10k. Mayo AC had 24 on the start line, one of the biggest contingents among the 600 club athletes taking part in the National 10k championships. There were 13 women and 11 men making up the Mayo AC team, with the women going to the gun at 1.10pm and the men 20 minutes later.
The course proved tough as expected with a stiff breeze into faces as the field turned in warm sunshine at 4k for the series of dips and rises that make up the second half. There were the usual stories of delight and disappointment, but all seemed to enjoy the event.
Anto Devaney led the Mayo AC men home in 36:58 and Colette Tuohy was first of the women to cross the line in 39:21. Bernie McHugh had a great run with a 51:41 PB. It was great to see a big line up of red and green at the start, including John Nolan in his first outing in Mayo AC vest. Paula Prendergast was one of those disappointed with her run, though she did compete and was first woman in the Bray Cliffs 10k on the previous evening. Championship results from Athletics Ireland are expected soon and Mayo AC should be in the running for medals in team and individual age categories. Results and full finishing time details at www.mayoac.com
