After some recent weather more befitting Noah’s Ark, the annual Maree 8k couldn’t have been more different. Glorious sunshine & a headwind in sections greeted the 326 runners who turned out for the 5th edition of this event.

Matt Bidwell returned to the undulating course alongside Galway Bay to take the title for a fourth consecutive year in a time of 26.46. It was 44 seconds away from his course record of 26.02 set back in 2011 although all times were slightly down today. Two less familiar names completed the podium with Mick Fogarty of Athlone Tri Club placed 2nd in 27.14 & Rory Moloney of West Waterford AC third in 27.20.

Ray Somers came out tops by 20 seconds in his little tussle with Mick Rice, finishing in 29.51 & first Athenry AC member home of the 16no runners. Next up was Alasdair Conway in what was an impressive debut for the club with a 31.02 & is definitely one to watch in the future.

The ever-present quartet of Mairead Sullivan, James Lundon, Bernie Mulryan & Jane Mangan again hit the tarmac for another appearance in the maroon & white singlet with both James & Mairead improving their 8k times over Tuam last month. Returning to the roads today were Enda Munnelly & Maria Lambe with a 36.49 & 37.54 respectively.

It is also great to see some new names under the Athenry AC banner appearing on recent results with Kenneth O’Dea joining Alasdair Conway in debuting for the club today.

Pictures from today located here courtesy of Andrew Talbot.

Race results located here.