Heat, hills and anniversaries make Dingle 2018 a winner
THOUSANDS of runners and walkers made their way through Dingle’s historic hinterlands on Saturday, encouraged by weeks of training and rewarded by scenery the likes of which make The Kerryman Dingle Marathon and Half Marathon one of the most sought after events on the calendar for joggers.
While the beautiful weather kept its side of the bargain, the combination of intense heat and hills made for a tough few hours. But when it comes to running, ‘punishment’ is in the eye of the beholder as the route created the kind of challenge runners love. It made the sense of achievement that bit more rewarding.
Saturday marked the 10th anniversary of The Kerryman Dingle Marathon and competitors were reminded of this by a plane flying overheard displaying a ‘Love Dingle Marathon’ banner. It’s billed as one of the best half and full marathons out there and it’s easy see why when you look at the figures. Registration increased in 2018 to 3,500 - of which 2,500 competed in the half marathon. And if proof were needed of its popularity, an incredible 2,000 people were on a waiting list to take part.
Dingle is known the worldover as a top tourist destination, but even the marathon has earned a sterling reputation overseas in the past decade with 800 international runners taking part in 2018.
“It’s won so many international awards at this stage, and it’s the combination of scenery and atmosphere that make it the success it is,” said Tadgh Moriarty, Event Director of The Kerryman Dingle Marathon.
The locals embrace the event and runners were treated to a combination of live music and encouragement throughout the circuit; a combination that adds to the sense of occasion, according to organisers. The official charity for the 2018 marathon was the Irish Cancer Society as runners collected for a worthy cause. Each year the marathon relies on 300 people to make the event possible; volunteers who combine their effort between water stations, marshalling, and medical assistance - from start line to finish line.
“It takes so many people to make this happen and we have it pretty streamlined at this stage. The locals are absolutely vital. The fact that local people facilitate us needs to be commended as the road closures on the day affects them. We’re very appreciative of their support,” Tadgh added. Eoin Sugrue was the first man home in the full marathon; John Meade was first home in the half. In the women’s, Lean Ní Chiobhín was first home in the full, and Aine O’Reilly first in the half. Full results are enclosed in this pull-out.