Race organisers hailed the 2nd edition of the Colemanstown 10k as an overwhelming success with just under 175 participants registering with huge representation from all local athletic clubs namely Athenry AC, GCH, East Galway AC, Craughwell AC, Loughrea AC & Clare River Harriers.
The race was won by Matt Bidwell (GCH) fresh from his win in the Connemara half marathon the previous weekend, and in a whopping time of 32:22, taking 19 seconds off his own PB, and setting a new course record in the process. This was a huge victory for him as he makes his final preparations for the London marathon in two weeks time.
He punched the air on the home straight, such was his delight with his achievement. His colleague Owen Byrne (GCH) came 2nd in a time of 34:27, while Conor Dolan came 3rd in the senior category in a time of 35:01. In the senior ladies, Aileen Lyons (Les Croupiers, Cardiff) came 1st in a time of 43:31 while Mary Kealy (Craughwell AC) was 2nd in 43:38 and Anne Moran (Craughwell AC) raced home in 3rd in 44:35.
Male & Female Over 40 category winners were: Fiona Lane & Mick Rice (both Athenry AC). Over 50 category winners were: Majella Ni Chriochain (Tri Sport) & Dermot Lowe (GCH).
First local home was Gearoid Rohan (Athenry AC) to a rapturous applause in a PB time for him of 39.06 and a tremendous feeling of accomplishment. There is a magnitude of work required to run a road race and in the teeth of recession it is a testament to the area and the many volunteers who assist in every possible way that we have been able to host such a successful road race for the 2nd year running.
A short 1k run saw about 70 children participate and receive their medals and goody bag from County Hurling player, Cyril Donnellan & County Camogie star, Niamh Kilkenny. It was a hugely enjoyable day for all children present who enjoyed the family ambiance. The organisers wish to sincerely thank all who helped make the run such an outstanding success, the many people who helped out in every way on the day, marshalls & stewards, those who provided refreshments, those who manned the water stations, Athenry AC for their assistance, a big thanks to our main sponsor Frank & Bernie Burke who provided the overall cash prizes on the day. Remember all funds raised here go to Colemanstown FC for the provision of additional facilities.
Also thanks to the local community who turned out in such large numbers to support the event. And so we say ‘lace up your runners and get ready for next year’ Colemanstown 10k 2013. Full results of Colemanstown 10k 2012 are attached.