Claremorris hosts 30k Walking Championships

Some of Irelands leading athletes are set to compete in the Woodies DIY AAI National 30k race walking championships in Claremorris on Sunday 19th February.  A number of these will be using the event as one of the last chances to gain an Olympic qualifying time, while others who have already qualified for London, will use it to gauge their fitness and compete for national awards.

Athletes expected to compete include:
Michael Doyle (Tara AC) represented Ireland at the World University Games 2011;
Brendan Boyce (Letterkenny AC)  has already qualified for London in 20k, and also represented Ireland at the World University Games 2011;
Jamie Costin (Double Olympian);
Robert Heffernan (Togher AC) is the reigning champion and he broke the Irish 30k record winning in Cork last year in 2.07.48. Last Saturday he won his 14th Irish Indoors 5k title in 19.06.58. He is a double Olympian and has already qualified for London in 20k and 50k.
Colin Griffin (Ballinamore AC) another 50k Olympian, is hoping to qualify for London in a 50k race in Slovakia next month.
Other national champions expected to compete include local Cian McManamon, Niall Prendiville and World Junior Champion Kate Veale.
Over 50 competitors are expected to be on the starting line.
The race starts at 11a.m and consists of 15 2k loops. The 2k lap will  offer a great opportunity for spectators to view the race. The course begins close to the race track in Claremorris and loops around near the CBE offices just off the Kiltimagh road.