Marathon man Packie’s fine kickboxing display in a busy sporting week
IT WAS a week to remember for Wexford sportsman Packie Somers recently as, having ran in the Dublin City Marathon, he went on to show stunning form in the world kickboxing championships held later that same week in the City West in Dublin.
Somers was quite upbeat about his marathon run, having finished in the excellent time of four hours 34 minutes which was an achievement in itself given that he has only recently taken to athletics.
This was his second full marathon, having previously competed in six half-marathons including the popular event in Waterford.
Having been involved in kickboxing for the past 35 years, it was no surprise to see him enter the world stage.
Training out of Synergy Fitness in Drinagh, Wexford, Packie competes with the Carlow Kickboxing Club, where he is coached by Patsy Whelan.
It was in the men’s veterans’ class that the 46-year-old competed in the world championships.
In top form going into the competition, Packie - a cancer survivor - battled with some of the world’s leading exponents, but just missed out on a bronze medal.
He finished in fourth position following some tough contests, having won bronze when competing in America last year.
Packie, who lives in Drinagh, is now looking forward to further challenges, particularly next June when he will be competing in the Ironman triathlon in Youghal, Co. Cork - the first time this event is being held in Ireland.