Seventeen of our young athletes represented the club at the National Juvenile championships in the new indoor arena in Athlone over the weekend, having previously qualified from the Dublin championships. Several of them competed in a number of events. This was the largest number we have had qualifying for these championships and the club will be represented by 5 relay teams in the National finals in two weeks time. We had many finalists and lots of outstanding performances in a wide variety of events. The experience of competing in such a magnificent arena was fantastic for our young athletes, particularly with the huge numbers competing and the razor sharp competition present.
Jack Rudden–Kelly continued his impressive progress when winning the u.15 high jump with a brilliant PB of 1m.71c. Jack also had a very fine run in the final of the boys 60m hurdles finishing just outside the medals. In the boys u14 hurdles Kaladay Abidon ran a brilliant final to win the silver medal in a fiercely competitive race, having earlier won his heat. Rolus Olasa had a great series of jumps to take the silver medal in the boys u.18 Triple jump in his first appearance at a national championships. Disappointment for one of our strong medal hopes however ensued on Sunday as Sean Lawlor fell foul of the rules. However, despite this we had a very good championship, many excellent performances, lots of PBs, valuable experience gained and great team spirit and support. Well done to our coaches, club officials, parents and young supporters who put so much work and enthusiasm into ensuring an enjoyable experience for all our young athletes competing.
Conditions were very cold and windy at the Dunboyne 4 mile this year in contrast to last year’s sun-drenched race. Nonetheless, there were some impressive runs from Donore athletes and it was great to see some of our newest members out. It’s great to see Eric Keogh back to good form and he was 8th in 20.50. New member John Dunne is quickly making an impression for the club, he followed up a good 5K last week with a 21.43 time here and Ken Norgrove has made a welcome return to competition finishing just behind in 21.48 and 2nd M40. Donal Iremonger was next in 24.25, Dave Wogan had a storming finish in 24.53 and training partner Des Gill was next in 25.37. Medbh Peavoy had a great run and another PB in 26.02 next in was Ian Redican 26.05 and Samantha Conroy 26.07. Tom Fagan ran 26.44, Breda Mahony 26.57. new member Louise Mulcahy 29.29, Mary Kelly 2nd W55, Anne Woodlock 35.26 (3rd W60), Pauline Fagan 35.59, Sinead Dunne 40.04, Annette Greally 40.29.
At the Wicklow Gaol break half marathon, Richard Robinson ran 93.31 and Alma Hanevy in her second half marathon this month ran 1.43.51.
Earlier in the week, the cross country season wrapped up with the night-time BHAA NCF flood-lit cross race in Malahide. Another fine run for Dervila Holmes who was the 1st lady in and well done to Ian Redican, Mary McDermott and Mary Kelly.