International and local runners take on the Enniscorthy 10k run

THIS year’s annual Enniscorthy 10k run was a resounding success attracting a top quality field of local and international runners.

The event, which was sponsored by Creane & Creane Insurance and Donohoe Skoda, was organised by Slaney Athletic Club.

Speaking to this newspaper about the event one of the organisers, Fergus Murphy, said it attracted a field of competitors that included some top international runners in addition to some of the most prominent local competitors.

‘ We’ve linked in with the Strawberry miles race as well,’ said Mr Murphy.

‘It was a good quality race that included Fionnuala McCormack who is a Euro cross-country medallist,’ he said.

Ms McCormack was the first woman home in the event.

Hiko Tanosa, who won the event, is also a top quality international athlete.

The quality of the field was indicative of the high regard in which the race is held and Mr Murphy said it regularly attracts top quality athletes.

While the event is organised as a fundraiser for the athletic club itself Mr Murphy said it’s more about enticing international athletes to the county and promoting the sport here.

‘It’s a great showcase for Wexford and it’s great to have a top quality race in the county,’ he said.

This year’s event also followed a new course as road works necessitated a change of route compared to previous years.

It was a new route but it was also a great success.

Runners setting off near the start of the Enniscorthy 10k race.

Ben Hill and Bobby Redmond.

John Murphy and Brian Maher.

Tomás Kavanagh and Tommy McElwaine before the start of the race.

Tina Dunbar and Angela Murphy.

Catherine Roche, the first Slaney Olympic woman home in the 10k.

Hiko Tanosa, winner of the Enniscorthy 10k.

John Murphy.

Fionnuala McCormack, first woman home in the Enniscorthy 10k.