Midleton AC held a successful meeting on Monday evening where the plans were put in motion for the highlight of our year - the Midleton AC Joe Hourigan Memorial 5 Mile Race on Thursday May 6th.

There are a number where ALL club members can help.

Firstly we would appreciate if would please download the attached race promotion poster. If possible please copy it (as often as you can) and then display it at your work place, local shop, gym, pub etc. We need you to spread the word about the race.
Secondly, Edmond O’Sullivan is co-ordinating stewarding for the race. Is there somebody you know that can spare some time to help us on the night – a family member, friend or work colleague?

If so please send text to Edmond with details -086-8323267

We will also have a draw for spot prizes on the night of the race – if you can acquire any prizes please forward them to Kathleen O’Connell.

Finally, Midleton AC has developed a reputation for the best after race food in the county. As usual we would ask each of our club members to bring a plate of sandwiches or some cakes if possible.

Many thanks for your co-operation

John Cashman

Midleton Athletic Club
The Joe Hourigan Memorial Five Mile Road Race

Thur. 6TH May @ 8pm
( Changing Facilities & entries @ Midleton GAA Pavilion )

Prizes ++++ SPOTS ++++ Prizes

Gents Ladies
1ST Five 1ST Five
1st 3 O/40 1st 3 0/35
1st 3 O/45 1st 3 0/40
1st 3 O/50 1st 3 0/45
1st 2 O/55 1st 2 0/50
1st 2 O/60 1st 2 0/55
1st 1 O/65 1st 1 0/60
1st Jnr 1st Jnr.
1ST 3 Wheelchair
ONE PRIZE PER ATHLETE
Entry Fee 10 Euro
Two Euro from each entry will be given to the “Lets Get Together” Foundation, Midleton Support Fund

Headphones are NOT allowed in this race.
Anyone found wearing them will be disqualified

ENQUIRIES Phone 0872403940

Our club colleague Trevor Mahoney wishes to highlight this forthcoming major sporting event in Midleton which takes place just 2 days after our own '5' Mile Race. It promises to be great spectacle for a very worthy cause.



Hi all -

They say that cross training is essential for any good running program so here is your chance to get out there and cross train, i.e., cycle, and for a good cause. The second annual Stephen Roche Tour de Cure will take place in Midleton on 8th May. Check out the link: http://www.stephenrochetourdecure.com/ for the latest information on the benefiting charities, the routes and for sign on. There are various routes geared for a range of abilities. Of specific interest might be the 15KM family route which is a great opportunity for parents to have a good, active afternoon with their kids.
Hope to see you out there.

More info from Trevor - e mail === trevorjmahoney@gmail.com

- YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING RACES –

APRIL 2010

Sunday April 4th – Belgooly 4 Mile – 12pm
Monday April 5th – Boherbue to Kiskeam 4 Mile – 2pm
Sunday April 11th – UCC 10K – The Mardyke – 11am
Sunday April 11th – Kilnaboy – Co Clare – Munster Series – 10 Mile – 1.45pm
Friday April 16th – Marine Climb – 6 Mile – Dungarvan – 7pm
Sunday April 18th – Great Island 10 Mile – Cobh - 11am
Thursday April 22nd – East Cork AC 4 – Ballintotis – 8pm
(pre register obrienlm@eircom.net)
Friday April 23rd – Butlerstown 10K – Co Waterford – 7.30pm
Monday April 26th – Stride By The Tide 4 Mile – Redbarn – 8pm
Thursday April 29th – East Cork Road Championships – Ballynoe – 7.30pm
Friday April 30th – Ballyhoura Series Begins – Doneraile 5K

May 2010

Sunday May 2nd – Bay Run Half Marathon – Glengarriff – 9am
THURSDAY MAY 6TH – JOE HOURIGAN MEMORIAL
MIDLETON AC 5 MILE 8PM
Saturday May 8th – Waterford to Tramore (7.5 Miles) – 7.30pm
Sunday May 9th – Clonmel 10K
Wednesday May 12th – Pfizers 6 Mile – Ringaskiddy – 8pm
Sunday May 16th – John Treacy 10 Mile – Villierstown – 12.30pm
Sunday May 16th – Rising Sun 1 Mile – Half Way (time to be confirmed)
Thursday May 20th – Cheetah Run – 4 Mile at Fota Wildlife Park – 8pm
Sunday May 23rd – Emer Casey Memorial 10K – Youghal – 1.30pm
Thursday May 27th – Ballycotton Summer Series – Race 1 – Ballyandreen – 8pm
Friday May 28th – Clashmore 5 Mile – 7.30pm
Monday May 31st – Glanmire 5 Mile – 8pm


The months of June, July and August bring several new additions to the already busy schedule. There will a new 10K Race in Dunmanway on Sunday June 20th and a new 5K in Macroom on Thursday July 1st. We believe plans are already in motion for three more races in July – two Sunday events in Youghal and Ballinrostig on successive weekends and a mid week 5K in Carrigtwohill. - Full details of fixtures for June, July and August to follow later.

‘Keep On Running’
John Cashman
Midleton AC P.R.O

THE EAST CORK TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS WILL BE HELD AT MIDLETON CBS GROUNDS IN MIDLETON ON SUNDAY NEXT MARCH 28TH.

MIDLETON ATHLETIC CLUB (JUVENILE SECT.)ARE HOSTING THE EVENT AND ARE LOOKING FOR SOME HELP FROM THE SENIOR SECTION.

PLEASE BE AT THE CBS GROUNDS BY 12.30PM IF YOU CAN HELP. EVENTS SHOULD BE CONCLUDED BY APPROX 2.45PM.

REMEMBER THERE ARE A NUMBER OF ADULT EVENTS ON THE PROGRAMME, SO IT IS ALSO A GREAT CHANCE TO COMPETE IN RACES SUCH AS OVER 35’S AND OVER 45’S 100 METERS AND BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING AN EAST CORK MEDAL.

SavieCard Available at training next Wed night for only 20 Euro

Midleton Athletic Club (Juvenile Section)
is participating in a SavieCard fundraiser to help raise much-needed funds for the club. Our goal is to sell at least 200 SavieCards and we would really appreciate your support. If we reach our goal, we will raise € 2000 for our club. These funds will be used towards final payments for the completion of our track facility. This facility is available to all club members.
We understand in these very difficult times it is hard for families to donate as much as they would like. That is why we have chosen SavieCard as one of our fundraisers this year. We feel that this fundraiser also gives back to you. Not only does our club raise much needed funds, but when you purchase a SavieCard you will be able to avail of discounts in over 50 local participating businesses.


The cost of each SavieCard is €20, the card is valid for one year and can be used as many times as you like throughout the year at all participating businesses. If used properly, cardholders can save 100s of Euros in their favourite shops, restaurants, services etc. A full list of participating businesses can be found on the attached sheet or on the website www.saviecard.com, and the list is growing daily.

If you would like to buy a SavieCard, an application form can be obtained from Maura Leahy, Club Treasurer (juvenile section), tel 086 1900445, or Sally Drennan, tel. 021 4883960. The SavieCard will be issued to you as soon as completed application form and appropriate fee is returned.

There will be a short presentation next Wed at training by members of the Juvinile Club about the Saviecard and they will be available to purchase on the night.



Thank you for supporting this Fundraiser for the Juvenile Section of Midleton AC.

The Juveniles are the athletes of the future. Invest in the future of athletics.

Ballycotton 10 2010
Midleton AC crew getting ready in the car park before the start. Well done everyone.

Midleton Athletic Club

Senior Section News



Ballycotton dominated the running landscape overt the last few days with the famous race attracting another huge entry. Midleton AC had over 80 finishers this year with some outstanding displays by athletes in various sections of the field.
Congratulations are especially due to Margaret Barry winner of the Over 60 category and to Tom Cody runner up in the Over 55’s. Noel O’Regan had a blistering run, setting a new pb with his 58:22 finishing time whilst Shane Cooney also had an outstanding day, finishing just over the hour mark.
Further down the field each individual Midleton AC runner had their own story to relate of the big race. For some it might not have been as good as expected, but for others such as Vincent O’Neill, Brian Nolan and Patsy Keane to mention just a few it was a very satisfying afternoon. With over 80 runners taking part it is impossible to detail the majority of individual performanc but there is no limit to time on the Midleton AC blog http://www.midletonathleticclub.blogspot.com/ or on the Cork Running blog which both have plenty of race material. Of course the Ballycotton Running Promotions site also carries the full race results. A more detailed report on the race will be forwarded to Midleton AC members later.

Before leaving the race

a collective ‘well done’ is extended to all who crossed the finish line from our club and a special word of congratulations to Maura O’Doherty and Kevin Smith who won our time prediction competition.

Ballinhassig
Whilst on the subject of congratulations, it’s ‘hats off’ to Donie O’Connell who apart from running a fine race in Ballycotton also made a winning debut in his new category at the Paddy Desmond Memorial Race in Ballinhassig on St Patrick’s Day.



Important Meeting

All club members are asked to note that a very important meeting of our club will be held at O’Meara’s Bar in Ballinacurra on next Monday March 29th – 9pm to discuss plans for this year’s Midleton ‘5’ Mile Road Race. If you feel you can help in any way please join us next Monday.

Diary

The upcoming race diary is packed with established and new events. First up it’s the rescheduled Belgooly ‘4’ at 11am on Easter Sunday, followed by the Boherbue to Kiskeam race on the following Monday. Kilnaboy, Cobh and Ballintotis all host races within the following two weeks.



In the meantime ‘keep on running’.

Ballycotton 10

One last request to those club members who unfortunately are unable to run. Please DO NOT give your number to anyone else as this can cause serious problems for the organisers and you will be embarrassing you own club as well. Remember when you entered you signed a form saying you would abide by the rules.

To those running "Have a good one"

Thank You From Ballycotton Running Promotions

A Special thank you has come from Ballycotton Running Promotions to all the Midleton AC athletes who helped pack the mugs for the race last night.

There is no truth in the rumour that they will get a special deduction of 2 Mins off their time.

1 DAY TO GO TO
BALLYCOTTON 2010

BEST OF LUCK TO ALL MIDLETON AC RUNNERS - ENJOY THE OCCASION AND THE RACE

Have you sent in your predicted time yet. Join in the fun and do it now. E Mail it here or text 0872403940

Keep On Running


=========================================

Strong Line Up Set For Ballycotton Spectacle

John Cashman Evening Echo



Many of the top names on the Irish road racing circuit look set to be in Ballycotton on Sunday afternoon to compete in the thirty third edition of the most famous ‘10’ miler in the land. Final confirmation is being awaited by the organisers from some runners in the ‘elite’ category, amongst these being Mark Kenneally who only two weeks ago won the Woodies DIY National Cross Country Championships.

If the Clonliffe Harriers man does make his first visit to the East Cork village he will obviously become a big player in the race in view of his recent excellent form line. An 8th placed finish in the European Cross Country Championships last December kick started a hugely productive period for an athlete who had garnered seven silver medals prior to his gold medal winning performance.

Former Ballycotton winner, Alan O’Shea looks a definite to be on the start line. If he can reproduce the form seen when recording a 52 minute winning display in Bantry over the same distance last month, he could have a major say in an event which he previously won three years ago. Having been on foreign soil for the last twelve months O’Shea showed his qualities with that eye catching performance on what was a very difficult course around the picturesque Mealagh Valley.
Another in-form athlete chasing glory in Ballycotton is last year’s runner up Sean Connolly who finished only7 seconds behind Vinny Mulvey. The Tallaght clubman showed his capabilities by clocking a superb 29:38 when coming home second in the Trafford Run in Manchester last weekend. Connolly who is coached by Dick Hooper also recorded an impressive 14:39 for the 5K distance in Dublin two weeks earlier. Since his last visit to East Cork he has also been crowned National 10K champion and he looks to have all the credentials to produce a big performance this weekend.
Mick Clohisey of Raheny Shamrocks AC, who finished two places and almost two minutes behind his fellow Dubliner in last year’s race, is also set for a return journey. Sean McGrath finished immediately behind Clohisey and the popular local runner who wears the East Cork AC maroon vest will be guaranteed to have huge support again on Sunday next. McGrath has enjoyed a very productive last twelve months amassing a string of successes over a variety of distances. His club mate James McCarthy (ninth last year) carries similar credentials and goes into the race in excellent shape after capturing the Munster Road title in Ennis only last weekend.
Brian Maher, winner of the Irish Runner Half Marathon last autumn and Corkman Brian McMahon are amongst the strong representation from the ‘marathon mission’ squad that are set to take part in Ballycotton. McMahon who hails from Carraig na bhFear is currently a member of Clonliffe Harriers.

West Waterford AC leading light Sandis Bralitis who won the Dungarvan ‘10’ in 50:57 earlier this year along with club mate Ravis Zakis who was runner up in that race will also be expected to be amongst the higher placed finishers. Meantime, Polish native Wieslaw Sosnowski (54:09 last year) warmed up by winning the Paddy Desmond Memorial ‘4’ miler in Ballinhaassig on Wednesday and he will be one of the many runners wearing the Eagle AC singlet in the big race.

Pauline Curley, ladies winner in three of the last four years will be bidding to embellish her association with the race. The Tullamore athlete triumphed over the ten mile distance in Craughwell only last Sunday and had a comfortable 1:25 to spare over her nearest pursuer when winning in Ballycotton last year.
A big challenge is expected to come from Borrisokane athlete Siobhan O’Doherty, winner of the silver medal in the recent National Cross Country Championships. She also has a 58:49 time to her credit from a good run in the opening ‘10’ mile race of the John Buckley Sports Munster Series in Dungarvan.
Cork lady Jill Hodgins (daughter of Cork City Sports Chairman Dick Hodgins) made a big name for herself when posting 2:52:51 in last autumn’s New York Marathon. However this prominent hockey player’s participation in Ballycotton seems to be in some doubt due to injury.
Rhona Lynch (Eagle AC) is very much in the fold and has set her sights in trying to break the magical hour mark. Third last year in 1:00:31, she has a string of wins to her credit in the intervening twelve months and looks set for another good show this time around.

On a broader note the race’s reputation as an event for all the family will again be borne out on Sunday with several family connections take part. Amongst them the Murphy family from Carraig na bhFear will have a special interest in the big day. Apart from husband Christy and daughter Eimear participating, mother Eileen will bring a new addition to the occasion. The eagle eyed artist has painted a Ballycotton collage which she has turned into a postcard for sale on Sunday as an additional race day souvenir

Midleton AC again lead the way in terms of club representation in this year’s race with over 100 entrants from the thriving club. The family connection is also very evident here with husband and wife combinations to the fore. The names of Patsy and Mary Keane, Tom and Helen Cusack, Danny and Joan McCarthy, Brian and Michelle Nolan, Mark and Mary Walsh, Donie and Kathleen O’Connell along with Adrian and Diane Walsh all appear on the official programme, whilst there are several other family links amongst the club’s huge entry.

2 DAYS TO GO TO
BALLYCOTTON 2010



Mugs Update

- Just a quick update with just 2 days to go, the Ballycotton committee have confirmed they will be packing their famous mugs on this Friday evening. Anytime from 7.30 on. Ahelping hand will go a long way. All help would be greatly appreciated in the School Hall.



FINAL DAY FOR PREDICTIONS

We hope to wrap up our race predictions today if possible, so if you wish to be in contention for some prizes, drop back a mail with your predicted CHIP TIME or text your name and time to Danny at 087-2403940



HELP ON THE BIG DAY

Just a reminder that the organisers require people to officiate at various points before & during our race on Sunday. Anyone interested must be in Ballycotton at 10am. Meeting point Marquee changing area at 10.15am

If interested, contact Tommy at 086-2386390



ADVICE FROM THE ORGANISERS

John Walshe of the organising committee has again stressed the importance of punctuality to all competitors.
“Some people tend to underestimate the time it takes to travel to the Ballycotton. Sunday is not going to be like any ordinary day. There will be major traffic restrictions in place from early morning. We will again be operating a ‘park ‘n’ ride’ system from various points. Runners will dropped off almost a mile from the start of the race, so it is imperative to allow plenty of time in advance. We would advise everybody to be in the car parks by 11am, the last buses leave at 12noon”



VISIT THE BLOGS

Remember to log on to our club blog, which is updated each day and has additional advice ahead of the race - see http://www.midletonathleticclub.blogspot.com/

Also pay a visit to John Desmond's excellent Cork running blog which is packed with news and facts about Sunday's race.



MATCH CLASH

There should be plenty of after match craic between rival soccer fans from within our club. Sunday’s race will begin at exactly the same time as Manchester United play Liverpool in the Premier League. Anybody free to do score updates along the 10 mile route? Some of us are planning to go into hiding for the evening!

3 DAYS TO GO TO
BALLYCOTTON 2010

Mugs Update

- Just a quick update with just 3 days to go, the Ballycotton committee have confrimed they will be packing their famous mugs on Friday evening (exact time to be confirmed later) - All help would be greatly appreciated. Please try and give a little time even an hour from 8 o clock on would be greatly appreciated .
There are 3,000 mugs to be put in bags and boxed so every hand counts.

Remember we are so lucky to have this great race on our doorstep

Dont forget the club will have a car or two on the cliff car park (beside the pitch and putt course) so that club members can leave their gear bags etc in safety and be able to get them immediatly after the race.We usually assemble there at 12 o clock and get group photos etc and warm up on the pitch and putt course.

Ballycotton’s Changing Times

Ballycotton Countdown– John Cashman- Evening Echo Article March 17

Next Sunday a new decade will dawn in the life time of the famous Ballycotton ‘10’ Mile Road Race. Thirty two years ago the most romantic story in Irish road racing began with 31 participants. This year over 3,300 runners made the entry cut off point with another 800 missing the mark.

Through the time tunnel there have been some remarkable ever presents. Two runners Willie O’Mahony and Ballycotton’s own John Walshe are set to continue their one hundred per cent record this weekend, whilst several more who competed in the early days are still on the scene today.
But outside the participants there is a common thread of consistent involvement running through was has turned out to a superb sporting spectacle. Day one volunteers include local man Willie Scannell who on Sunday next will be on duty again, covering the miles in a job description that fits into the ‘highly versatile’ category.
As the thousands came and left Ballycotton, Willie Scannell was there as an ever present, always at the ready to answer the call for a race that has become part of his life.
When 31 runners departed the famous fishing village in 1978, nobody could imagine that they to be the fore runners to the Ireland’s most loved 10 mile road race.
“Things were much different then”, admits Willie, conceding that on the day the organisers thought they had attracted a very big entry.

“It didn’t quite all go to plan as we discovered at the end of the race that we did not have enough of cups and ware to cater for the assembled gathering. A quick trip down the village to a local bed and breakfast house was required to solve the problem”.
In that opening year 24 of the 31 participants broke the hour mark. Twelve months down the road Ballycotton welcomed 82 finishers notably including five ladies. Mary Dempsey took the honours in that category and remarkable she lines up again on Sunday next, having already impressed in Mallow and Dungarvan, where the opening two legs of the John Buckley Sports Munster ‘10’ Mile Series took place this year.
However, it’s the dawn of each decade that graphically illustrates the meteoric growth of a race has become land mark date for the majority of runners on the ten mile circuit.
In 1980 Liam O’Brien, having finished runner up in the previous two years led home 151 finishers, whilst marathon specialist Jean Folan set a new target for the ladies with her 62:31 finishing time.

By the time the decade changed again Ballycotton’s name had spread far and wide. 151 had become 695 in ten years and for the first time ever provisional on the day computer results were printed. John Griffin of St John’s won the race denying Liam O’Brien of a three in a row.

The nineties saw a continuation of the upward spiral with the 1,000 barrier broken for the first time in 1993 in a race that saw some exceptional performances. Eight participants led by winner Gerry Curtis broke the 50 minute barrier whilst 200 crossed the line under the hour mark.

1995 was provide the fastest Ballycotton time on record as Gary Staines set a daunting target of 47:00 that still stands firmly in place.
Five years on by the dawn of the new millennium, the Ballycotton ‘10’ had been ranked by ‘Runners World’ as second only to the London Marathon in their top 50 races. 1,222 finishers set another new record whilst Ballycotton’s new king Noel Berkeley showed his class to out pace Jamie Lewis in an epic finish.
The ten years that followed since have seen new milestones being reached on a regular basis, peaking when 2,813 completed the course in Vinny Mulvey’s first winning year in 2006. Last year’s figure of 2,402 became the second biggest in the history of an event that has literally become fit for a president.
“It was in President McAleese’s first year in office that she came to Balllycotton” recalls Willie Scannell.

“Her husband Martin, a regular runner took part and the President graced us with her presence at the start and finish of the race and also presented the prizes in the Cliff Palace afterwards. She came among us as an ordinary person, walked the cliffs, surveyed the scenery and received many presentations from local groups”.
Over three decades on from the original Ballycotton ‘10’ Willie Scannell is in a better position than most to analyse it’s success story.
“The continuous local voluntary help along with the additional assistance from a far wider group of people has ensured the smooth running of the event”.
It appears that the magic of the race is also infectious amongst it’s organisers.

“For many months we look forward to it and try to have everything in place. There is always that bit of apprehension particularly now over the last few days. Weather is a big factor, something that is totally out of hands. Ground conditions are also crucial as they dictate our car parking arrangements”, he concluded.
Now with the 2010 Ballycotton showpiece almost upon us you get the feeling that just like the runners, Willie Scannell and his colleagues just cant wait for Sunday to dawn

Ballinhassig 4 Mile

St Patricks Day

Donie O'Connell getting his first prize in his new age category

As usual the Rising Sun AC held the annual Paddy Desmond 4 mile race today St Patricks Day.It was up and above their usual very high standard ,well stewarded,clearly marked and quick results.Their prizes in all categories are the best in the county and put many bigger clubs to shame.
Needless to say Midleton AC were well up in the prizes. Neilus Aherne (a great advertisment for his own massage) again came 1st o/50 and Breda Cahill 3rd o/35 and Margaret Barry 1st o/50. But a very special mention must be made of Donie O'Connell who was running his first race in his new category of o/60 and came 3rd in his first outing Well done Donie

4 DAYS TO GO TO ---
BALLYCOTTON 2010



Club Dinner –

Margaret Beausang from our social committee has been in touch to say that Thursday is the final day to book places at our post race dinner at Water Rock House (6.30pm) Please help to spread this word to your club colleagues.

Radio Coverage

There will be extensive coverage of Sunday’s big race with Community Radio Youghal (104FM) broadcasting a live 2 hour special from Ballycotton commencing at 1pm.

C103 will also have live coverage of the conclusion of the race with interviews to follow during the course of ‘Cork’s Sports Sunday’.

Neilus Aherne

Remember our colleague Neilus Aherne Sports/Holistic Therapist is the man to contact for any advice on injury prevention and treatment. In the countdown to Ballycotton, it’s important to have the legs in tip top shape, whilst a rub down in the days after is also advisable. Booking is essential. - Neilus may be contacted on 086-8438355 for appointment and advice.

Postcard

Finally, today take a look at the attached postcard which will be on sale in Ballycotton on Sunday. It is the work of an eagle eyed artist with family connections in the big race.

Midleton Athletic Club (Juvenile Section) is participating in a SavieCard fundraiser to help raise much-needed funds for the club. Our goal is to sell at least 200 SavieCards and we would really appreciate your support. If we reach our goal, we will raise € 2000 for our club. These funds will be used towards final payments for the completion of our track facility. This facility is available to all club members.
We understand in these very difficult times it is hard for families to donate as much as they would like. That is why we have chosen SavieCard as one of our fundraisers this year. We feel that this fundraiser also gives back to you. Not only does our club raise much needed funds, but when you purchase a SavieCard you will be able to avail of discounts in over 50 local participating businesses.


The cost of each SavieCard is €20, the card is valid for one year and can be used as many times as you like throughout the year at all participating businesses. If used properly, cardholders can save 100s of Euros in their favourite shops, restaurants, services etc. A full list of participating businesses can be found on the attached sheet or on the website www.saviecard.com, and the list is growing daily.

If you would like to buy a SavieCard, an application form can be obtained from Maura Leahy, Club Treasurer (juvenile section), tel 086 1900445, or Sally Drennan, tel. 021 4883960. The SavieCard will be issued to you as soon as completed application form and appropriate fee is returned.



Thank you for supporting this Fundraiser for the Juvenile Section of Midleton AC.

The Juveniles are the athletes of the future. Invest in the future of athletics.

Visit www.saviecard.com for more information.

5 DAYS TO GO TO ---
BALLYCOTTON 2010


The organisers will be packing the famous Ballycotton ‘10’ mugs later this week. As always as much help as possible is required to ensure the job is completed quickly. Traditionally members of Midleton AC have played their part, so if you can lend a hand later in the week, either on Thursday or Friday evening at the Ballycotton School Hall (exact date to be confirmed, it would be much appreciated. Watch this space for updates!

==========================================

As mentioned yesterday our club is asking you to predict your chip time at the end of the race. We will have some prizes for the winners at our post race dinner on Sunday evening. So why not join in ?Send you predicted finishing time via

e mail to John Cashman or text to Danny McCarthy on 087-2403940

Already we have had contact from a number of members, so keep those predictions coming in before now and Friday.

Please inform your colleagues regarding this competition as not all of our members are on our e mail list.



There is plenty of interest in our post race meal at Water Rock House. Remember to book and pay in advance if you wish to attend - it's 15 euro for paid up members and 19 for partners.

- Give a shout to Edmond O Sullivan or any member of the social committee. Alternatively drop an e mail back to me.



Another reminder that help is always required with stewarding etc on the big day. If you are not running or know somebody who would be willing to lend a hand please contact Tommy Hartnett of Ballycotton Running Promotions on 086-2386390.



Don’t forget that tomorrow there is one more opportunity for runners to gauge their form before Ballycotton as Rising Sun AC will host the Paddy Desmond Memorial ‘4’ Mile Race in Ballinhassig at 11am. Jimmy Murray (086-3320461) will be pleased to furnish any further information to intending participants.

6 DAYS TO GO TO ---
BALLYCOTTON 2010

.....and our club ia asking you to predict your chip time at the end of the race.

We will have some prizes for the winners at our post race dinner on Sunday evening. So why not join in ?
Send you predicted finishing time via
e mail to John Cashman or text to Danny McCarthy on 087-2403940

Please inform your colleagues regarding this competition as not all of our club members are on our e mail list.
If you are not in you can't win.
==================

Midleton 5 Mile Road Race - 2010

Please note an important club meeting regarding this year's race will take place at O Meara's, Ballinacurra on Monday March 29th - 9pm.

Please attend if possible and help make this year's race the best ever. We need all the help we can get.

Its your own clubs race and we want to do the club proud once again.

9 days to go and counting
Latest News

Ballycotton Countdown Underway

Athletics – John Cashman



Ireland’s best loved ‘10’ mile road race is once again on the radar of athletes across the county. On Sunday week all roads will again lead to Ballycotton as the picturesque fishing village in East Cork becomes the focus of the athletics calendar.
March 21 will appear on the race day diary this year, a date which is two weeks later than usual due to a clash with last Sunday’s Woodies DIY National Cross Country Championships at the Phoenix Park. It appears that Mark Kenneally who led from the gun to win the Senior Mens title could be amongst the line up in Ballycotton.

Kenneally, eight in the European Cross Country Championships in Dublin last December has the option of going to Poland for the World Championships later this month, but apparently he has yet to decide whether or not to compete.

In other news Rhona Lynch of Eagle AC, who was first lady home in the Janssen ‘4’ miler at Little Island last Sunday is concentrating on breaking the hour mark in the big race. The inform athlete who covered the distance in 1:00:31, to finish third a year ago, has already built up a tremendous reputation around the local roads having being the dominant female athlete in the Ballycotton Summer Series in recent years.

“Training has gone well since January. My ambition is to get inside the 60 minutes mark. A lot will depend on the day and conditions, but hopefully I will go close”, commented the Glanmire based athlete.

Whilst the exact line up of the elite athletes will not be known until nearer next weekend, it does appear as if there could be plenty of well known names on the start line. Following the establishment of the ‘Marathon Mission’ group last year, with the objective of increasing the standard of marathon runners in this country, a number of athletes from this group are likely to include the renowned East Cork fixture in their itinerary.
The organisers in Ballycotton have responded by offering an increased incentive for those who may have landmark times in their sights. The mens winners will get an extra 200 euro if he can get inside the 48 minute mark, whilst the ladies winner target time is set at 56:30. The first prize winner also collects a cheque for 500 euro.

The last winner to dip below 48 minutes was the great Noel Berkeley when he triumphed in 47:52 ten years ago. Significantly runner up Jamie Lewis from Finn Valley was only five seconds down in second place.
The ladies target of 56:30 might seem a more likely target as Rosemary Ryan ran 56:48 in 2008 and Pauline Curley ran 56:33 two years earlier.



With the big race coming near, the organisers just like the runners are putting the final touches to their preparations. This week has been busy with the race packages being sent out to over 3,000 addresses.



Once again the committee have stressed that those unable to run do not need to contact Ballycotton Running Promotions. The organisers do not hold a waiting list and the transfer of numbers is a complete ‘no go’ area. General expectation at this stage suggests approximately 2,500 will actually compete on the day. Last year there were a total of 2,402 finishers a figure that was only exceeded once (2006) in the 32 history of the event.

Meantime, Marymount Hospice has been selected as the charity for this year’s race and as usual a sponsorship card will be included in the aforementioned package which is being currently compiled.
As always the logistics of race day will be planned well in advance, but Ballycotton Running Promotions would be delighted to get more help on board, in such areas as stewarding and car parking. Involvement at this level means the opportunity to be part of one of Cork’s great annual sporting occasions. Tom Hartnett on 086-2386390 is the man to contact if you wish to play your part.



There is one more opportunity for runners to gauge their form before Ballycotton as Rising Sun AC will host the Paddy Desmond Memorial ‘4’ Mile Race in Ballinhassig at 11am on St Patrick’s Day. Jimmy Murray (086-3320461) will be pleased to furnish any further information to intending participants.



Finally, looking further on the horizon a new venue has been announced for the traditional opening evening fixture of the season. The Castlemartyr ‘4’ organised by East Cork AC will move a few miles west to Ballintotis where it will become a joint venture with the local Community Council. The race headquarters will be located in the Church Park, just adjacent to picturesque Loughaderra Lake.

Jassen Results

The Jassen Results are now available at
www.corkbhaa.com/pages/results.htm

This must be a record for Cork BHAA to have the results online so fast.Well done and well done to Jassen who put on a great event and to our club member Tom Cusack who was part of the organising committee.

Senior Section News
Ballycotton Beckons

On Sunday week Ballycotton will play host to the country’s most loved ‘10’ Mile Road Race for the 33rd time. The occasion, the atmosphere, the thrill of taking part, the satisfaction of watching family and friends compete makes this race the high point of the year for the majority of club runners.
Our proximity to the venue gives Midleton AC members a special insight into the big day. Unlike the thousands that travel from far and wide many of us view the fishing village in its normal state on several other occasions during the year. The fact that many of our club members who will line up on Sunday week will have covered the course at least once in the weeks building up to the big day ensures that extra familiarity with the bends, the drags, the gentle down hills and the challenging finish.

With a record number of over 100 entrants from our club Midleton AC again not surprisingly leads the way in terms of club participation. Between now and the big day we will have further preview items on our blog and on the mail service, so keep a check as race day comes nearer. Don’t forget to also keep a regular check on John Desmond’s Cork Running blog for his excellent lead up to the big race.
Enjoy the day whether you are running or watching and if you have not already got to cover the famous 10 miles, there should be plenty of local groups on the road over the coming Saturday or Sunday. Keep an eye to the blog or enquire at training on Wednesday.
Finally, remember our colleague Neilus Aherne Sports/Holistic Therapist is the man to contact for any advice on injury prevention and treatment over the next few weeks. In the countdown to Ballycotton, it’s important to have the legs in tip top shape - Neilius may be contacted on 086-8438355 for appointment and advice. Book now for pre and post race massage to avoid dissapointment.


Post Race Meal
Our newly formed Social Committee report plenty of talk about the club’s post race meal on Sunday 21st at Water Rock House. At this stage we would appeal to those members (and their partners) who intend to be present to please give their name and money to any committee member at training as soon as possible. Edmond O’Sullivan, Kay Furlong, Kevin Smith, Margaret Barry, Margaret Beausang or Fergal O’Meara are the key contacts. Remember it’s 15 euro for fully paid members and 19 euro for partners.


Carrigaline ‘5’
In Carrigaline on Sunday week last the Tommy Ryan Memorial event provided a timely prep’ race for those wishing to sharpen up ahead of Ballycotton. There were plenty of prizes heading back to our club with inform athletes Michelle Nolan (3rd overall) and Neilus Aherne (1st Over 50) enhancing their respective recent form lines.
Eslewhere Breda Cahill and Anne Marie Perry both had great runs in the Over 35’s whilst newcomer Anne McCarthy and Mary O’Keeffe had excellent runs in the Over 40’s. Elaine Hennessy O/50 and Kathleen O’Connell O/55 can also look back at their trip to Carrigaline with satisfaction, having posted good times. Congrats to all our prize winners and the well done to the rest of our crew who competed in what is always a tough test.

Janssen ‘4’

A cool breeze greeted visitors to Little Island on Sunday for the first running of the Eddie Hennessy Memorial ‘4’ Miler, which was organised and promoted by the Cork BHAA in association with Janssen employees. In total close on 350 runners took part over the same course as was used for the FMC ‘4’ in January.

The full list of results is not available but it was great to see many some of the clubs newest members taking part in the event. At this point outside of the prize winners we are not in a position to identify individual times etc, but within the prize winners Noel O’Regan was amongst the headline makers running a personal best for the distance just a day after running a 20 mile training run in the lead up to the Rotterdam Marathon next month. Noel was top man overall in the Over 40’s, in a category where Donal Broderick posted another excellent time.

Michelle Nolan made it two third place finishes in eight days when following race winner Rhona Lynch and runner up Anne McPhail across the line. Sally Drennan made a great return to action after recent injury to finish second Over 40, Margaret Rohan and Kathleen O’Connell doing likewise in their respective categories to complete a great day for the ladies.

In the mens categories Neilus Aherne scooped another prize finishing just behind winner Michael Murphy, thus continuing his outstanding early season form.
(We will have the full results available later this week).

Munster Championships

Tony Kelleher the County Board P.R.O has been in touch regarding the forthcoming Munster Road Championships and asked us to bring the following notice to the attention of all club members.
“Any athletes wishing to be considered for selection on Cork teams for the Munster Senior and Novice Road Championships in Ballyea, near Ennis on Sunday next March 14th please contact County Team Managers, Donie Walsh at 086-2092795 (Men) or Aine Murphy at 085-1223885 (Women) asap. Athletes wishing to be considered for selection on Cork teams for the Munster Masters Road Championships in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick on Sunday, March 28th next should also contact the team managers”

Paddy Desmond Memorial

St Patricks Day

The annual Paddy Desmond Memorial ‘4’ Mile Race will take place with an 11am start on St Patrick’s Day. It’s the annual highlight for Rising Sun AC and is based in Ballinhassig. Last year nearly 200 runners took part with many of our members making the journey for what was a most enjoyable event. Entries will be taken from 10am and all can be assured of a warm welcome from Jimmy Murray and his club colleagues.

Fixture Summary

Sun Mar 28 – Munster Masters Road Championships – Limerick
Sun April 4 – Belgooly 4 Mile Race – to be confirmed
Sun April 11 – Kilnaboy, Co Clare 10 Mile Race – 1.45pm
Sun April 11 – Cork BHAA – UCC 10K – 11am
Fri April 16 – Marine Climb 6 Mile– Dungarvan – 7pm
Sun April 18 - Great Island 10 Mile – Cobh – 11am
Thu April 22 – East Cork AC/Ballintotas Community Council 4 Mile – 8pm
Fri April 23 – Butlerstown, Co Waterford – 10K – 7.30pm
Mon April 26 – Cork BHAA – Stride By The Tide 4 Mile – Redbarn – 8pm

John Treacy Race

Looking further ahead into the month of May, across the county bounds plans are already been put in motion for the John Treacy ’10 Mile Classic. The organisers here have sent us the following details regarding this year’s race.

“Entry is now open for the 2010 John Treacy Classic which will take place once again in Villierstown, Co. Waterford on Sunday 16th May.

Runners/Jogger and Walkers can choose from the 10 Mile Road Race, 5k Fun Run/Walk and the all new 1k Fun Run/ Walk.Closing date for online and postal entry is Friday 7th May 2010-so don’t delay, enter today! For full race information and entry details please log onto www.thejohntreacyclassic.com ; E-mail: info@thejohntreacyclassic.com or call (058) 21169”

Midleton ‘5’

Of course the most important date for all Midleton AC members is the date of our own race – The Joe Hourigan Memorial ‘5’ Mile Race on Thursday May 6th – 8pm. A meeting will be held later this month to put plans in motion and we will looking for everybody to play their part in what is always a great social and sporting occasion. So, at this point the best advice is to make in your diary and start encouraging friends, family and work colleagues to take part and help make this year’s the most successful ever Midlleton ‘5’. Lets all work together.


Club Book

- Great to see that Jim McMurtry is making superb progress with the impressive pictorial history book of Midleton AC. This publication features photos old and new of adults and juveniles and will make a great souvenir for anybody associated with our club. Well done to Jim on his efforts – a launch date will be announced in the not too distant future.


Congrats Mark

Congrats to our colleague Marc Dalton and his bride who were married recently – the greeting comes to you both from all your friends and colleagues at Midleton AC.

Club Contact

- Finally, a reminder to new members who have forwarded their e mail address to us over the past few weeks. Unfortunately I was a little unsure of one or two contact details. If you get this email and have not previously responded, we would appreciate if you do same. Thanks in advance for your co-operation.
Remember to keep up to date with all the latest Midleton AC news by checking out our up to the minute club blog – if you have not already found it just check http://www.midletonathleticclub.blogspot.com/ for all the latest club news.
E mail contact is midletonac@ireland.com
Telephone enquiries regarding the club may be directed to Danny McCarthy on 087-2403940

Until next time ‘keep on running!

BALLYCOTTON 2010 - 16 DAYS TO GO
Remember Our Post Race Dinner -
“Water-Rock House, Sunday 21st, 6.30pm. Main course ( 5 choices), desert, tea/coffee. Wine also included. €15 per paid up member.
19 for partners.
Please book and pay members of the social committee (Edmond O'Sullivan, Margret Beausang, Margret Barry, Fergal O’Meara, Kevin Smith, Kay Furlong) when you attend training on the Monday/Wednesday nights.” TIME IS MOVING ON, PLEASE HELP THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE BY BOOKING AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

MENU
Starter
==========
- Veg Soup

Main Course
==========
Choice of
Chicken
Beef
Fish
Veg Option

Dessert
=======
Choice Of -
Profiteroles
Apple Pie
Rice Pudding
==========

Tea/Coffee

BALLYCOTTON 10

POST RACE MEAL
-----------------------------------------------------------------

“Water-Rock House, Sunday 21st, 6.30pm. Main course ( 5 choices), desert, tea/coffee. Wine also included. €15 per paid up member.

Please book and pay members of the social committee (Edmond O'Sullivan, Margret Beausang, Margret Barry, Fergal O’Meara, Kevin Smith, Kay Furlong) when you attend training on the Monday/Wednesday nights.”