The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Big turnout for 10 miler and 5k An Ríocht event
THE Castleisland-based An Ríocht Athletic Club, in association with Lee Strand, held its eighth annual Kingdom Come 10 Miler and 5K run on Sunday.
There was a fantastic turnout, with over 500 runners and walkers of almost all ages taking part across the two events.
Athletes and participants travelled from as far away as Dublin, all parts of Munster and all corners of Kerry.
The popular, faster, flatter route was back for the second year ‘running’, with many competing to achieve their own or ‘Personal Best’ times despite the windy conditions.
The reward of taking part in the event in the cold weather was a hot beverage, pies and sweet treats, along with a finisher’s medal, race souvenir and finisher’s t-shirt for the 10 Miler participants.
Host club manager Hazel Byrne expressed the delight of the club at the huge turnout in spite of the threatening weather forecast.
“We’re delighted with the interest shown in our event and especially with the extra interest in the event this year. We would like to thank our large team of 70 people who helped us run the event, including volunteers, stewards, club members, pacers and staff.
“A huge thanks to all the local businesses who supported the event and to the people of the town for their co-operation,” said Ms Byrne.
The male 5K winner was Eddie O’Connor, who did the course in 16.21 minutes, and the female winner was teenager Niamh O’Mahony on 18.01 minutes.
The 10 Miler male winner was Togher AC Cork athlete Gavin Sweeeny on 52.46 minutes, and the 10 Miler female winner was Farranfore Maine Valley AC runner Deirdre Nagle in 66 minutes.
A draw for all the day’s participants for a Walsh Bros Electrical-sponsored 32’’ HD television was won by Maura Herlihy from Scartaglin. Marie was there in person as her race number was plucked from the huge pile of entrants. Maura’s delight at winning was exceeded only by that of her children, Dylan and Megan.