Cunningham’s stormer
The penultimate race in the Co Tipperary road racing season was hosted by Fethard AC in Fethard Town Park last Sunday afternoon. The novice B race challenged those that ran the novice A event (minus the top eight men and top five ladies) to a 2.5 loop race for the ladies and a 4-loop race for the men.
We had five take on the event, two ladies and three men. Deirdre Bailey ran home in 7th place in the ladies 3k event followed by Patricia Ryan in lucky 13th. Robert Cunningham ran a stormer in the men’s 6k to cross the finish line in 8th place followed by Damien Holian in 12th and Brian Carroll in 23rd. Our men finished 5th team, 7 points out of the podium positions and unfortunately our ladies didn’t have a team so were unable to score in the team event.
SEVEN YEARS OF REMEMBERING CURLEY
So who was Michael Curley Cunningham? Michael, more commonly known by his nickname “Curley” due to his unique hairstyle, stood out not only on account of his trademark headband but also for his humble and affable personality. To describe Curley as a gentleman would be an understatement. He was one of the few people who radiated positivity no matter where he went or who he met.
Curley was known far and wide throughout the running fraternity as he brought his infectious smile, wit and heart-warming personality with him wherever he raced. His mild-mannered disposition and his calm and serene attitude to life made him a hero to so many people throughout the country.
His other passions included rearing prize-winning cattle, gardening and the maintenance of vintage cars and tractors. In each of these pursuits he won numerous awards. Moreover, for many years he hurled and played soccer for his local clubs with great distinction.
Throughout his illness he never became angry and always retained his upbeat outlook on life. In the early stages of his battle he continued to do what he loved doing best – running, and when he was no longer able to put on a pair of running shoes it was evident how much he missed this primal form of activity.
He may be no longer with us on this earth but the legend of “Curley” will live on in all of us. The Michael Curley Cunningham 4 Mile Remembrance Run will be held on Friday, 10th May at 7.30pm in the village of Galbally. An AAI Permitted Event. Online registration on Eventmaster. Prizes for first 3 men and women, first male and female junior plus male and female 40, 50 and 60 categories. Refreshments afterwards in the community centre.