Stratton fast becoming a sprint
EIGHT athletes from Boyne AC faced a tough challenge on Sunday as they lined up to compete in the highly regarded and enduring Ras na hEireann.
Nestled amidst the gorgeous fields of Lawlesstown, Dunleer, the long, steep slopes that would put every athlete to the test were concealed by their beauty, and this was certainly a contest for the courageous and fit!
Coach Alan Fay warmed up the Boyne AC contingent and his calm demeanour really impacted the athletes, while he was constantly available to offer supportive words or guidance.
First to compete – in the U9 girls’ race – were Stella Gow and Ruby Winters and both ran a very quick 500m considering their age group did not escape the daunting hill. Stella is known for her great sprinting abilities, and Ruby – at the age of six – seems to have the stamina of a Grand National horse, so these two both have exciting futures in athletics.
Boyne AC had one representative in the U11 girls’ event and this race ended up becoming a thriller.
Caitlin Hughes took control of the race from the start and maintained a comfortable lead for most of the 1,000m. It was a fight to the very end, though, thanks to those tough hills and ultimately she came away with a well-earned third-place medal.
Next up representing Boyne AC was Malachy Brodigan and Conor Hughes in the boys’ U11 race, again run over 1,000m.
This event had one of the largest entries of the day and everyone at Boyne AC was really proud of both boys for their incredible efforts as they finished just seconds outside of the medals.
In the girls’ U13 race, Isabelle Winters was the sole Boyne AC athlete on the day.
She remained unfazed despite the massive group of runners and the intimidating terrain, maintaining her position in the front pack and performing admirably, narrowly missing out on a medal.
Isabelle is known for her ability in both middle and long-distance running and is looking forward to the Indoor Championships next month.
Shauna Rice, running out of age in the U17 category, maintained her composure and finished in a well-deserved ninth place despite the difficult route, which stretched out over 3,000m and involved many hills.
Seamus Keenan was the final runner of the day for Boyne AC. He enjoyed the challenge of the tough and hilly 4,000m course, as he is no stranger to 5km races.