Mayo AC take Bronze in European clubs cup

Submitted by TJ McHugh

On Sunday, October 29th Mayo AC women’s team represented Ireland at the 25th European Clubs Road Race Cup in Almeirim in Portugal. The four member team recorded exceptionally good times for the 15 kilometre race held on a flat course but in very warm summer like conditions, with temperatures reaching 25 degrees.

The race began at 10am and the course consisted of 3 loops around Almeirim. The women’s race was won by Portuguese international runner Dulce Felix in a time of 51:01. This made it two in a row for the talented runner, as she also won last years event. Mayo AC’s team was lead by Mary Gleeson and she ran a great race to finish in 9th in 56:14, she was closely followed by Colette Tuohy in 59:01, Kathy Connolly in 63:18 and Sarah Syron in 68:37.

It became obvious early on that Maratona CP would win the team event as they occupied the top 5 positions. Second place went to SC Braga but there was great joy when Mayo Ac were confirmed as 3rd placed team. This was a brilliant team performance (having finished just outside the medals in 4th place last year).

Raheny Shamrock who were representing Ireland in the Men’s Competition took a very creditable 4th place in a very competitive men’s race, which was ran over the half marathon distance.

The Mayo AC women had lots of support during the race from club officials, but also from the large contingent of Raheny supporters who travelled to Portugal. Well done to all on this excellent achievement.