Preparation on track for 50th running of Hollymount International Road Race

With just 4 months to go until the big day, major planning and preparation is making strides to ensure the 2015 Hollymount Road Race is the best ever in its distinguished 50th year history. Sunday November 15th will see everyone from elite athletes to complete beginners descend on the South Mayo village to test themselves around the picturesque circuit.

A 50th anniversary race committee under the chairmanship of Sean Reilly (the man who has organised the event every November since 1966) has been diligently working behind the scenes since the beginning of this year.

Plans for the anniversary include the unveiling of a commemorative statue reflecting a major contribution made to the event, and a plaque containing the names of all male and female winners will also go on permanent display.

A pre race function will be held the night before (Saturday November 14th) to honour and appreciate all those who have left an indelible mark on the history of the event. Special guest on
the night will be John Treacy, CEO Irish Sports Council and former Olympian Silver medalist.

The event will include an underage race at 12 noon, a new women’s 6k race at 12:20 and the men’s 10k race at the earlier time of 1pm. New features will include a major cash prize fund, chip timing and a limited edition 50th t-shirt to commemorate the occasion.

All race winners since 1966 will be invited back to the village for the day. Likewise the organisers are issuing an open invitation to anybody who ever ran Hollymount to attend the race, be it as a
spectator or to run and enjoy the camaraderie.

While a major race launch is planned for September, committee members will have an information desk at a number of upcoming events starting at the 23rd Annual Balla 10k on Saturday next 25th July. Race entries (including a free t-shirt) can be taken on the evening.

(The above is Press Release No 1 from 50th Hollymount Race Committee)