New records likely on flatter 10k route

THE recently configured flatter course for this month’s annual An Ríocht Athletic Club 10Miler is most likely to produce new distance records for some and personal bests for many more.

The 5K route for the graduates of the currently training Couch to 5K squad remains the same as in years past and runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome.

The annual Kingdom Come 10 mile and 5k Run will be held on Sunday, April 22, and both events will kick off at the earlier time of 10am.

The elimination this year of the Limerick Road uphill, dead pull at the outset of the 10Miler event is a welcome development for all as it took a lot of wind out of all sails.

The race attracts athletes from all the leading clubs throughout Munster and some from beyond

“The 10 mile run has a brand new route this year which is very flat and will provide a great opportunity for runners to attain personal best times,” said An Riocht AC Manager Hazel Byrne.

“It promises to be a great event backed by the experienced An Riocht Athletic Club and we’re looking forward to maybe seeing a new record for the distance in the 10 Miler,” said Ms. Byrne.

Internationally experienced athlete and Brosna native, James Doran, believes that the new course can shave 1.20 minutes off the times of the leading athletes. Participants out to achieve personal bests over the distance can expect to take anything up to 30 to 40 seconds off their times.

“All runners found the old route very tough going over the first couple of miles and by taking that stretch out it gives all of us an incentive to set new times for the distance.

“I have run the new course six or seven times already and, on a fine day, a lot of people should be very happy with their times and with the safety of the course as well,” said James, who added a European team silver medal to his collection recently.

The 5km is €12 and participants will receive a medal and water bottle souvenir. The 10 miler is €25 and includes a t-shirt and medal.

The event is chip-timed and there will be food and refreshments provided for all afterwards at An Riocht.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the running of the host club. Registration and route maps available online now at www.riocht. ie/news.html

Participants can also register at An Riocht on the morning of the event. Telephone information is available from: 066 71 42199.

Photo by John Reidy An Ríocht AC manager, Hazel Byrne (centre) pictured with Thérese Healy (left) and Bernadette Fitzgerald preparing for the Sunday races.