Tullamore Harriers men win Quinlan Cup in successful half marathon

Mitchell takes second place with PB

The 2024 Bord na Móna Tullamore Harriers Half Marathon held last Saturday was undoubtedly an overwhelming success, filling the host club with immense pride. With almost 1200 finishers, the race has grown from strength to strength since the inaugural event in 2013.

The athletes set off to loud applause from the crowds lining Charleville Road. From the early stages, Colin Maher of Ballyfin AC took the lead, setting the pace for the race. He was closely accompanied throughout by Paul Mitchell of Tullamore Harriers, Feidhlim McGowan of Sligo AC and Mick Fogarty of Ferbane AC, with this lead group maintaining a strong presence at the front.

In the final kilometre, Colin made a decisive move, breaking away from the pack to secure the win with a two-minute margin, finishing in 1:09:05. Paul Mitchell from the host club, Tullamore Harriers, secured 2nd place with a personal best of 1:11:05. Mick Fogarty was close behind, finishing 3rd in 1:11:16.

Feidhlim McGowan took 4th position with a time of 1:11:47. James Moran was 5th finisher in 1.13.09 and Terry Shanley of Clane AC was 6th in 1.13.40.

In the ladies’ race, it was Ciara Wilson of DMP (Drinagh-Murrintown-Piercestown, Wexford) who took the title in 1.20.40, almost 2 minutes ahead of 2nd placed Sally Forristal of St Joseph’s AC (1.22.18). Third lady was St Laurence O’Toole’s Emma Furey in 1.24.50. The top three men and top 3 ladies also medalled in the Leinster Half Marathon Championships.

Edenderry AC's Caroline Donnellan was 4th, Ciara Brady of Raheny Shamrock AC was 5th and Sarah Flanagan of Tullamore Harriers was 6th lady finisher.

The Quinlan Cup was presented to the first men’s team of four and this year, Tullamore Harriers were the winners with Paul Mitchell, Killian Nolan, Barry Minnock and Pauric Ennis on the team.

The Phyllis Delaney Cup was presented to the Mullingar Harriers AC ladies team of Mary Stewart, Criona Reid, Jacinta Reilly and Aisling Corcoran.

The winners of the age group categories also produce impressive performances (see list of winners at end of article).

Mark Nugent, who has competed in the race on many occasions, was the sole hand cyclist and finished in 1.13.21.

Starting from the planning stages in November 2023, the race committee's commitment was to deliver the best possible event, and they certainly succeeded. As with any large event, the behind-the-scenes work required to make it a success cannot be overstated.

The team’s dedication and attention to detail were evident throughout, ensuring that every aspect of the half marathon was carefully executed. This level of preparation and the massive community and club contribution on race day is what makes an event like the Bord na Móna Tullamore Harriers Half Marathon such a standout success while strengthening Tullamore Harriers’ reputation within the athletic and local community.

Bord na Mona, the title sponsor, was represented by Sharon Doyle, Head of HR and Corporate Communications, and John O’Reilly, Head of Renewable Energy, and Jane Hogan, Marketing Assistant. Tullamore Harriers AC is indebted to Bord na Móna and to the many loyal sponsors who provide invaluable support and security to the event. Their generosity and commitment are essential to the success of the event, enabling the club to deliver a top-notch experience for all participants. Without their backing, the event would not be possible, and the club is truly grateful for their continued partnership.

The presence, support, and services of An Garda Síochána, the Offaly Civil Defence, and Offaly County Council must also be acknowledged. Their involvement was crucial in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the event. From traffic management to providing emergency services and logistical support, their contributions played a significant role in the success of the event. Tullamore Harriers AC is deeply grateful for their dedication and professionalism, which helped make the day a memorable one for all involved.

From early morning, the club was buzzing with activity as officials diligently organised everything needed to ensure the day ran smoothly. Ronan and Eimear from Myrunresults.com were first to arrive! Both Ronan and Eimear must be commended for their professionalism and support from the outset when the race was opened for entries in November 2023.

Teams of volunteers were busy setting up the course, arranging the stadium setup, preparing catering facilities, and managing water stations, along with countless other unseen tasks. Registration opened at 8.30am and the car park and club were soon full of athletes, marshals, supporters, media and the wonderful sponsors.

This year, the race served as the Offaly, Kilkenny and Athletics Leinster Half Marathon Championships with details filtered from the full results for the respective championships. It was the final round in the Offaly Buildmore Endurance Series. Thank you to all the photographers, including members of the Tullamore Camera Club and many more, who snapped great memories.

Just before 10am, Tullamore Harriers Chairman Adrian Curley extended a warm welcome to the athletes gathered at the start line on Charleville Road. In his address, Adrian made a touching reference to the late Phyllis Delaney, in whose honour the Phyllis Delaney Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the winning ladies' team, is dedicated.

Phyllis, a beloved juvenile coach with Tullamore Harriers in the 1970s, presented her trophy at last year’s race but sadly passed away in November 2023. Her legacy lives on through this special award, and her son Paul made the presentation at this year’s event, while her other son James competed in the race.

As per tradition, the club extended an invitation to a distinguished guest starter, someone who had left a significant mark on both the sport and the club itself. This year's Honorary Guest was Michael Gillespie. Michael joined the club in the mid-1970s and quickly established himself as an accomplished track and field athlete.

Over the years, Michael has served the club in various capacities, including as a coach, administrator, committee member, and chairman for 12 years, spanning two terms. His leadership extended beyond the club, holding positions at county, provincial, and national levels.

Michael also managed Irish teams at international level and has been officiating at national events for many years. He is a tireless worker and dedicated volunteer, always the first to step up and offer his help. His contributions have been invaluable to the club and Michael is extremely respected and loved by his clubmates, and indeed the broader athletic community.

*Age group winners

O40 Ladies - 1st: Theresa Hughes (Athlone AC); 2nd: Claire Dermody (Kilkenny City Harriers).

O40 Men - 1st: Marc Augustin (Le Chelie AC); 2nd: Barry Minnock (Tullamore Harriers AC).

O50 Ladies - 1st: Mary Stewart (Mullingar Harriers AC); 2nd: Siobhan Hanratty.

O50 Men - 1st: John Lee (Trim AC); 2nd: Terry Keogh (Raheny Shamrock AC).

O60 Ladies - 1st: Jene Carr (Clonliffe Harriers AC); 2nd: Julie Maguire (Athlone AC).

O60 Men - 1st: Eddie Newman (Mullingar Harriers); 2nd: Aidan Brennan (North East Runners AC).

O70 Ladies - 1st: Eileen Kenny (Tullamore Harriers AC); 2nd: Eileen O'Brien (Lucan AC).

O70 Men - 1st: Ger Woods (Banagher AC); 2nd: Owen Cullen.