Aghamore five, and bit more
And so to Aghamore on Sunday, the morning after the night before; well, ok 2pm. Aghamore GAA have been holding a fun run for past few years. A low- key, stress free event with medals for all finishers and trophies for seniors, o40s and u19s.Their rural location just off the N17 halfway between Knock and Kilkelly, is typical Mayo landscape: signpost-free single track roads, little eskers and drumlins. There is a new national school, a pub, football pitch and clubhouse.
As a result of these fun runs and other local community efforts, they now also have a running track and all weather pitch behind the school.
This year’s race started at the track which has a 360 metres lap. About fifty adults, children and push-chairs, assembled behind the line as the youngsters counted down from ten to one. Off they went legs and elbows flying, in colourful disarray. After about 300 metres the whooping stopped and the gasping started. It was all good fun and most of them carried on in fits and starts around the 5.5k course – well, that’s what Mr Garmin said.
At the 3k mark there is a tough corkscrew hill – polka dot jersey stuff. 800 metres of it. Very short strides. Of course you have to run down the other side. Then a demanding long drag uphill to the finish. Medals were presented on the line and there were jugs full of icy-water on the table – very welcome as the warm and humid conditions were draining
Dave Mullins (Tuam AC) was first home in 21.16. He ran 38.03 in Balla the evening before. Tom Hunt was second 22.40.
The first woman was Marie Kelly from Kilkelly in 27.09 Other Mayo AC to get trophies were Breege Staunton, 2nd senior, and Mary Moylett 1st over 40. Refreshments were provided at the presentation and hot food was availed of by many of the family groups.
The organisers are keen to promote athletics in the area and AAI have agreed to give training to six people to support them. Individuals and groups are welcome to use the track – remember to keep the pedestrian gate closed.
Contact: Mike Smith on 083 3493642