Newry AC had athletes out at road, track and Parkrun events this week as well as another mountain training session.
NIA Live Indoor Track Series, Dublin
3 Newry AC athletes travelled on Tuesday evening to Abbottstown for the NIA Live Indoor Meet. With snow blocking the route for the McCauley girls to join, the men were left the responsibility to lead the way.
In the 1,500m races, Gary Crummy still learning the ropes on track running didn’t disappoint. Gary lead the way in his heat to take 1st place in a PB time of 4:20:00. Gary with more technical training will break this 4:20 time over the next few months. John McCaffrey followed in with a time of 4:46:29.
Hughie Mackin raced in the 800m taking a credible time of 2:16:72. Mackin was unhappy to get boxed in during his race so is adamant to rectify this technicality and race a PB back at Abbottstown in a fortnights time.
Castlewellan Parkrun
Sarah Jane Beattie and Chloe O’Hare joined 237 park-runners for the popular Castlewellan Parkrun. On a cold and damp morning, the 2 runners tackled this beautiful course for the first time.
This was Chloe’s first ever Parkrun and Sarah Jane support paced alongside her for the pair to finish in a great time of 24:37. Sarah Jane and Chloe took 6th and 7th female placing and 44th/45th overall.
Raheny 5 Mile Road Race
John McCaffrey headed south on Sunday to compete in the AXA Raheny 5 Mile Road Race.
This was the 35th year of the race of which is one of the top Irish road racing events anticipated each year. Elite athletes from all over Ireland are attracted to this event which hosted nearly 4,600 competitors this year.
John had a good race after the frustration of clearing his way through the obstacles of a crowded start line. He finished with a time of 31:17 and 376th place.
Mountain Trail Training
The usual squad of Newry AC took bravely to the Mournes on Saturday morning for their weekly endurance and navigation tester.
This weekend with poor visibility, cold, wet and windy conditions was definitely a motivation and skill tester.
With heavy snow predicted for the incoming week it will be interesting to see which runners brave the shorts for the next session!
