The inaugural Clifden Lifeboat 10K road race was held Sunday 14th September in what turned out to be great running conditions. The race was organised to raise much needed funds for the RNLI and the Clifden lifeboat. The event was held close to the anniversary of a tragic event which shocked this West Galway community in 2004 which was the sinking of the MVF St Oliver. This was a local fishing boat whose sinking claimed the lives of 4 local fishermen, including 18 year old Mikey Mullin who had only been at sea for 6 months. The race was the master mind of Mikeys mother, Laurence and this race was a fitting tribute to Mikey.

Just 10 minutes before the gun the rain was still coming down in torrents but a sudden change in the weather seconds before the start made for a fairly dry race. Just over 100 runners, walkers and dogs took to the roads around Clifden described by most as ‘challenging’ and one runner was heard to ask just how it was possible for a loop circuit to keep going up a hill the entire distance. The spoils of the day were taken by Ian Egan (GCH) in 38.51. Ian had taken second place in Tuam less than 24 hours previously and is looking in excellent form for a good run in Dublin in October. Second male was Martin McEvilly who had also placed well in Tuam the previous day, third was Martin O’Donnell. The womens race was won by a huge margin by Sue Zlnay (45.10), followed by Kate McNamara and then Olivia Staunton. The first walker home was Julie Conneely. The first dog came home in 1hr 22min and looked as fresh as when he had set out, although a big bowl of water was needed at the finish line. A special mention must go to local teenager, Hazel Scullion who crossed the line in 90 minutes and looked as fresh as a daisy within minutes of the finish.

It is hoped that this race can become a regular fixture on the County Galway calendar and provides some serious challenges for even the hardened road racer.

Results below