Craughwell AC raised the bar in terms of race organisation with a fantastic 10 mile race yesterday, an event destined to become a classic.

It was a great day out for Athenry AC to our nearest neighbours. There was even a special sign welcoming the over 50 memebers of the club who toed the line yesterday. There was great performances all around, with many members using this event as a step up in distance before tackling the Connemara half mathon next month.

The evergreen Gerry Ryan ran a storming race to win, and secure individual county gold. After 10 miles of racing, only 2 seconds separated Eimear Butler and Jane-Ann Healy, with Eimear claiming the county Gold medal, and 3rd overall.

Mick Rice claimed the M40 prize in the race, with bronze in the Country championships, his first individual county medal I believe. Brian Bruton was closing him down in the second half of the race, and with Brian O Connor close behind, and myself a little further back. This proved good enough for gold team medal in the county championships.

The Athenry womens' team had a bit more breathing room while also claiming gold medals. Deirdre Hasset and Miriam Wall put in strong performances to back up Eimear and Jane-Ann. Miriam also picked up her category prize - great stuff Miriam!

The only disappointment was that our joint team was pipped by Mayo AC for the overall prize by a single point! We'll be back to have another crack at that next year!

Congrats to all at Craughwell AC - take a bow!

Team