The semi-finals of the 23rd Galway AAI Primary Schools Cross Country took part on Tuesday last in perfect conditions around Nolan Park (the pitches) in Renmore.  Over 1100 children and 60 schools from around the county were represented.  For the first time, the county was split into two, EAST and WEST, due to pressure of numbers.

Eight races were run, with the top 30 and first five teams in each division qualifying for the finals this Saturday in Loughrea AC's Bushfield complex, which has recently been renovated.  See the results posted here.

Thanks to the following who helped make the event so successful: those who took the entries; she who wrote out the 1500 sticky numbers; those who filled the 60+ school envelopes and ensured they were all correct and present; those who helped with registration; those who set up the course; those who made sure the starts were safe and fair; those who manned the finish chutes, front and back; those who recorded the finish numbers; those who patrolled the course; those who gave out the medals; those who cleaned up afterwards; those who produced an outstanding set of results.  Mike, Vincent and myself know who you are, too many to mention!

An exciting day's racing is guaranteed this Saturday with many of the kids going to experience their first real cross country conditions :-).  I am led to believe that the course is in outstandingly lush condition, as is every green field in the county in what has turned out to be the best summer in a generation.

We are still looking for volunteers to help on the day.  Please contact us if you are available and capable of helping.