Striders strike top form in Dunboyne
THE LEINSTER Juvenile cross-country relays and Masters cross-country took place in Dunboyne recently.
United Striders fielded three teams in the relays, and the Under-14 boys destroyed teams from the rest of Leinster to take the gold medals.
Their Under-16 girls’ team finished in fifth place and the Under-16 boys also picked up the bronze medals by finishing third. Well done to these young athletes.
The Masters women’s race was very exciting, with Jackie Carthy of Kilmore and Wexford taking the lead going out on the last lap, getting a 20-metre advantage on Pauline Curley (Tullamore Harriers).
Jackie was caught on the finishing line by the former Olympian, finishing second overall and second Over-45.
Ann Sullivan of D.M.P. also ran a fantastic race to finish in 15th place and first Over-55. Well done to her, and to Ciara Bowe who finished in 29th place, securing fourth place for the county women’s team.
The Masters men’s race had over 150 competitors. Pat Foley (Croghan) was the first Wexford man home in 28th place, followed by United Striders duo Alan O’Connor (31st) and John McGrath (32nd).
Ted Flannelly of United Striders finished third in the Over-50 category, while clubmate Pat O’Callaghan was eighth with Stephen Flavin of Croghan ninth. Ger Maloney of St. Paul’s had a great race to take the Over-55 title. All Masters athletes are expected to enter the All-Ireland Masters which is on February 12 at Waterford I.T. The county will also be entering teams in the Juvenile ‘B’ All-Irelands.
The Athletics Wexford A.G.M. is on Wednesday, February 25, at 7.30 p.m. in the Riverside Park Hotel, with all clubs to attend. Clubs have four voting delegates.
The Athletics Wexford awards and medal presentation night is on February 3 in the Enniscorthy Rugby Club at 7.45 p.m.
Main awards are the Mr Oil athlete of the year, the Brother Egan Cup, the best cross-country club, best Under-17 man and woman at the county championships, national record breakers, international certs., and the Kehoe Foods-sponsored service to athletics award.
Finger food will be served, and it promises to be a great social gathering.