Medal joy for Harriers at national half marathon

On Sunday last, there were seven Tullamore Harriers athletes on the start line of the annual Charleville Half Marathon. Hosted by North Cork AC, this year's event incorporated the Athletics Ireland National Half Marathon Championships, so the competition was fierce with club athletes from all over Ireland fighting for national half marathon medals.

The weather was favourable, with a very slight breeze and humid but bearable temperatures. Starting in Charleville the route took the 1500 runners out to the village of Kilmallock and then looping back to the finish line.

Notable achievements came from Eileen Kenny and Mary Galvin, both podium finishers in their respective age categories.

Eileen claimed gold in the O70 category and Mary secured bronze in the O65 group. It's fantastic to see such inspiring performances from these two ladies, representing their club proudly.

David Flaherty was the first Harriers athlete to cross the line with an impressive time of 1:23:00, placing 190th in this highly competitive field.

Ger Dunican, John O'Connell, Rita Daly Ravenhill, and Mary Daly all followed with strong times, with Rita and Mary both placing 5th in their respective age groups.

Hugh Armstrong Ballina Athletic Club claimed the win in the men's with a time of 1:04.35. Ryan Creech of Leevale Athletic Club in second place and Eoghan Totten Newcastle AC in third.

The ladies' race was won by Shona Heaslip An Ríocht Athletic Club in a time of 1:10.57 with Grace Lynch (DSD) second and Ciara Wilson (DMP AC) in third.

Tullamore Harriers times: David Flaherty 1.23.00; Ger Dunican 1.30.31; John O'Connell 1.40.34; Rita Daly Ravenhill 1.42.18; Eileen Kenny 1.45.25; Mary Daly 1.46.23; Mary Galvin 1.52.13.