Credit Union 5k proves to be a runaway success
OVER 600 people took part in the Wexford Credit Union 5k Night Run in aid of the Wexford branch of the Irish Kidney Association and High Meadows Community Hub in Clonard.
On a clear and dry night. many ran while others walked the route, which extended from the Wexford quayfront to Trinity Street and out along the Rosslare Road to Drinagh, returning to the quays via the Main Street and Anne Street.
The fastest participant was Niall Sheil of St Killians Athletic Club, who covered the distance in 12 minutes and 59 seconds, with Andrew Connick of Ferrybank AC in second place at 16 minutes, 19 seconds, and Paul Doran of United Striders in third place at 16 minutes, 22 seconds.
Clodagh Kelly of Croghan AC was the first female over the line, completing the route in 18.44.
More than 600 people of all ages took part in the event, about 100 up on participation in last year’s event.
Everyone gathered on the quay in advance of the start for warm-up exercises led by John Dier of Wexford Menapians, before embarking on the run in favourable weather conditions.
David Dempsey was master of ceremonies for the event and provided a commentary as people came over the finish line, mentioning the runners and walkers by name, with the help of the electronic chip on their number bibs.
After the run, the participants enjoyed music and refreshments in a marquee on the quay.
David Martin of High Meadows was event organiser for the fifth annual 5k run, sponsored by Wexford Credit Union as an annual community event.
David Maguire of Wexford Credit Union paid tribute to the organisers, the participants and Wexford Gardaí who provided motorcycle escorts and traffic safety controls along the route.