Monday 28 June 2010

Midleton AC – Senior Section News



There is lots of activity on the horizon with July promising to be the busiest month of the year on the road scene. The addition of several new races has ensured a packed summer fixture list and this is particularly evident during the next few weeks.



Before we look ahead, let’s look back at some of the highlights from the last month or so.



Cork Marathon Review


Kevin Smith and Shane Cooney ran almost stride for stride for much of this month’s Cork City Marathon, before Kevin pushed on near the end to cross the line in 2:58:46 with Shane coming soon behind in 2:59:25. The guys deserve a huge word of congratulations for breaking the magical 3 hour mark. Many runners strive to reach this land mark but only a small percentage of these succeed. Both had put in the necessary preparation for the big day with Kevin having used the Limerick Marathon as a warm up for the Cork event and Shane who missed the Connemara Marathon topping up his training for the Cork race.



Unfortunately Kevin’s time did not appear on the classified results as he lost his timing chip along the way. Hopefully after putting his case to the powers that be the situation can be rectified in the near future.



Elsewhere Mick Murk Murphy made an impressive debut over the distance crossing the line in 3:36:52, whilst Fergal O’Meara, Ned Ramsell, Adam Duchnicz and Vincent O’Neill all came home comfortably under the 4 hour mark. Kevin Morrisson followed up his exploits in Paris with another very solid run just over the 4 hour mark whilst Mary B Walsh who produced a big finish and Mary Toher kept the ladies flag flying for their performances. Congratulations to one and all!



As for the relay event we had a host of representatives on a variety of teams. Despite the inclement weather conditions, reports indicate that all enjoyed the occasion and no doubt many will be back again nest year. Well done to all!



Glanmire Success

On a damp evening over 300 took part in the Glanmire ‘5’ recently. It proved a very successful occasion for our club with numerous individual and team honours captured.
Prize winners were Michelle Nolan (2nd overall after another superb run – 31:32), Sally Drennan – 1st Over 40, Joan Hough – 1st Over 50, Margaret Barry – 1st Over 60, Donal Broderick – 2nd Over 40, John Cashman – 2nd Over 45, Edmond O’Sullivan 3rd – Over 45, Neilus Aherne – 2nd Over 50 and John O’Halloran – 3rd Over 55.
Midleton AC runners had also great success in team events with our members on the honours list with Midleton UDC, Flexible Connectors, Department of Education and Midleton News teams. Congrats to all!



John Buckley Sports 5K

Conditions were much different as over 600 athletes made their way around the lively 2 lap Marina Road route for the 26th annual John Buckley Sports 5K. On a really warm evening our club had it’s customary large entry for the event, with many of our members clocking a personal best time for the distance. Philip Mullane, Brian Kenneally, John Carey, Edmond O’Sullivan, Marc Dalton and new signing Mickey O’Connell (who produced a superb 18:37 on his debut over the distance) were amongst our men to enjoy excellent performances. Susan Delaney, Margaret Twohig and Ber Twomey were amongst our ladies contingent to impress.



As for the prize giving ceremony some familiar names were again on the podium, including Michelle Nolan (5th lady overall), Donal Broderick (3rd Over 40), Neilus Aherne (2nd Over 50) and Sally Drennan (2nd Over 40). All of these athletes had to produce their very best form to make the honours list as the event proved a very competitive race.

Dunmanway 10K

After Liverpool’s visit to Dunmanway last summer, the local sporting public had the banners and buntings out again to welcome a very big entry for the inaugural 10K race in the town. Midleton AC was again represented on what was one of the warmestdays of year so far. Noel O’Regan led our crew home, finishing in a splendid 9th position overall, whilst congrats are also due to Joan McCarthy who was second home in her age category, whilst husband Danny also produced a very steady run. In total there were over 25o finishers in the race.


Ballycotton Series – Race 2 – Shanagarry

The running road show moved to Shanagarry last Thursday for the second stop on the Ballycotton Summer Series. Yet again a new record was reached when over 500 went to the start line for the first time at the venue., the figure being greatly boosted by another huge Midleton AC turn out.

Noel O’Regan’s 29:16 was the stand out time on the night, but there were several other outstanding Midleton performers.

Michelle Nolan enhanced her place in the overall series with a superb 3rd placed finish. Sally Dreenan proved supreme in the Over 40’s and she was followed home by Marion Aherne who had a brilliant outing. Elaine Hennessy was second Over 50 and Margaret Barry also finished second in her age category.

The Midelton ladies team finished second behind Eagle AC.

Mickey O’Connell continues to blossom in the early days of his running career – a 31:23 finish indicating his potential. David Murphy, a member of our juvenile section followed up his Ballyandreen outing with another superb show, whilst Trevor Mahoney, Niall O’Neill, Patsy Keane and Billy O’Sullivan were amongst our other massive contingent to enjoy good races.

Courtmacsherry 10K

On Friday last Danny McCarthy and Adam Duchnicz kept the club flag flying high as they turned in good performances in the Courtmacsherry 10K race which proved a success story for the organisers.

Hectic Line Up

The fixtures just keep on coming on the roads over the few months. Holiday time means that most people will miss a few fixtures along the way but with such a packed programme of races, there will still be ample opportunity to race. In fact we are in the best region of the country when it comes to race alternatives. The East Cork region is becoming almost the running capital of the south and with the West Waterford Series and The Ballyhoura Series just over the county bounds the options and alternatives are always varied.



The following is the list of races for July. Note the new additions to the annual calendar in Macroom, Youghal, Ballinrostig and Carrigtwohill. The action begins on Thursday of this week with the AIB Macroom, Daniel Kingston Memorial race, headquarters for which is located in the Castle Grounds.







July

Thu 1 – AIB Macroom, 5K – 8pm

Fri 2 – Ballinscarthy 10K (near Clonakilty)

Wed 7 – EMC 5K – Ovens – 8pm

Thu 8 – Corkbeg 5 Miles – Whitegate – 8pm

Fri 9 – Dungarvan 5 Miles – 8pm

Fri 16th – Donoughmore 7 Miles

Sun 18 – Youghal 4 Mile – Charity Race – 2pm

Thu 22 – Ballycotton Series – Churchtown South 5 Mile – 8pm

Sun 25th – Ballinrostig 4 Mile – 12noon

Wed 28th – Carrigtwohil 5K – 8pm

Fri 30th – Kinsale Regatta 5 Mile – 8pm

Fri 30th – Ballymacarbry, Co Waterford – 5 Miles – 7.30pm



Ardmore Race

The Ardmore 5 Mile Road Race on Friday August 13th brings the curtain down on the West Waterford Summer Series. Our club colleague Kevin Smith has suggested that we might run a bus to the venue and make a social occasion out of what is always an enjoyable trip across the county bounds. What are your thoughts? - Give Kevin or Edmond O Sullivan from our social committee your views.



Book Launch

Jim McMurtry’s pictorial history of Midleton AC was launched recently at Midleton GAA Club by Cork hurler John Gardiner. The publication has met with rave reviews. Copies may still be purchased by contacting Danny McCarthy – 087 2403940 .


Track Dates

Remember the Cork City Sports will be at C.I.T this year on Saturday next July 3. A great line up of international athletes is set to participate. Also our own juvenile club will host their annual Open Sports at Midleton CBS on Sunday July 18th at the CBS Grounds, whilst the next opportunity to take part in the Cork County Board Graded Summer events is on Monday July 12 commencing 7pm at CIT.

Training

Remember the regular training sessions – Monday 6pm at Midleton CBS and Tuesday – 7pm from the Community Centre.

Your Times

Just a word to all our members – due to the size of our club it is impossible to monitor individual times. If as a club member you record a personal best in any race please let P.R.O John Cashman know – and we will then let everybody else know about your achievement.



In the meantime ‘keep on running’.

Friday 25 June 2010


Well done to all all runners and prizewinners especially Michelle Nolan who finished 3rd Lady The highest she ever finished in the series.

Ballycotton Summer Road Race Series 2010
SHANAGARRY '5'
Thursday 24 June 2010. 8:00pm

Finishers in the Midleton AC team. Pace Race Race
Place Time Name Team Race Age Category min/mile No Place
1 0:29:16 O'REGAN, Noel Midleton AC M40 05:51.1 25 21
2 0:30:24 MURPHY, David Midleton AC MJ 06:04.7 58 37
3 0:31:00 BRODERICK, Donal Midleton AC M40 06:11.9 59 52
4 0:31:23 O'CONNELL, Mick Midleton AC M 06:16.5 53 57
5 0:32:08 NOLAN, Michelle Midleton AC F35 06:25.5 406 80
6 0:32:12 AHERNE, Neilus Midleton AC M50 06:26.3 49 82
7 0:32:36 MAHONEY, Trevor Midleton AC M 06:31.1 100 95
8 0:32:48 DALTON, Marc Midleton AC M 06:33.5 654 99
9 0:33:14 MURPHY, Mick Midleton AC M 06:38.7 107 107
10 0:33:33 KELLY, Alan Midleton AC M40 06:42.5 679 119
11 0:34:00 RAMSELL, Ned Midleton AC M 06:47.9 193 132
12 0:34:01 GUNNING, Peter Midleton AC M50 06:48.1 147 133
13 0:34:09 NOLAN, Brian Midleton AC M 06:49.7 144 139
14 0:34:24 O'NEILL, Niall Midleton AC M40 06:52.7 124 143
15 0:34:35 DUCHNICZ, Adam Midleton AC M 06:54.9 670 151
16 0:35:02 KEANE, Patsy Midleton AC M45 07:00.3 188 165
17 0:35:26 O'SULLIVAN, Billy Midleton AC M 07:05.0 159 177
18 0:35:36 O'HALLORAN, John Midleton AC M55 07:07.0 223 183
19 0:35:40 HEALY, Brian Midleton AC M45 07:07.8 145 186
20 0:35:42 DRENNAN, Sally Midleton AC F40 07:08.2 415 188
21 0:36:04 O'REILLY, Kevin Midleton AC M45 07:12.6 647 199
22 0:36:14 GEARY, Caroline Midleton AC F 07:14.6 435 203
23 0:36:25 AHERNE, Marian Midleton AC F40 07:16.8 424 212
24 0:36:36 CAREY, John Midleton AC M40 07:19.0 213 218
25 0:36:59 CAHILL, Breda Midleton AC F35 07:23.6 426 236
26 0:37:44 KENNEALLY, Brian Midleton AC M40 07:32.6 289 258
27 0:37:48 PERRY, Anne-Marie Midleton AC F35 07:33.4 433 262
28 0:37:51 FITZGERALD, Yvonne Midleton AC F 07:34.0 432 265
29 0:38:07 MURPHY, Marie Midleton AC F 07:37.2 428 274
30 0:38:11 MCCARTHY, Danny Midleton AC M55 07:38.0 300 279
31 0:38:44 MORRISON, Kevin Midleton AC M45 07:44.6 222 293
32 0:40:12 DELANEY, Susan Midleton AC F 08:02.2 443 336
33 0:40:14 MURPHY, Trish Midleton AC F40 08:02.6 461 337
34 0:40:41 O'NEILL, Vincent Midleton AC M40 08:08.0 337 347
35 0:41:09 MULLANE, Philip Midleton AC M 08:13.6 339 360
36 0:41:27 O'CONNOR, Camilla Midleton AC F40 08:17.2 695 368
37 0:41:31 BARRY, Margaret Midleton AC F60 08:18.0 467 369
38 0:42:13 HENNESSY, Elaine Midleton AC F50 08:26.4 885 382
39 0:42:25 GEARY, Helen Midleton AC F 08:28.8 484 385
40 0:42:35 SAVAGE, Ann Midleton AC F45 08:30.8 655 390
41 0:42:38 O'KEEFFE, Mary Midleton AC F40 08:31.4 474 393
42 0:43:36 ROHAN, Margaret Midleton AC F50 08:43.0 480 407
43 0:43:37 TWOHIG, Margaret Midleton AC F 08:43.2 488 408
44 0:44:27 MORRISON, Moira Midleton AC F40 08:53.2 680 419
45 0:45:04 KENNEDY, Yvonne Midleton AC F 09:00.6 477 424
46 0:45:06 TWOMEY, Bernie Midleton AC F 09:01.0 352 427
47 0:45:52 HOGAN, Shevaun Midleton AC F35 09:10.2 640 435
48 0:46:56 MCCARTHY, Joan Midleton AC F50 09:23.0 704 452
49 0:47:01 KEANE, Mary Midleton AC F40 09:24.0 713 454
50 0:47:54 GARDE, Shirley Midleton AC F35 09:34.6 720 463
51 0:48:07 MCMURTRY, Jim Midleton AC M60 09:37.2 369 466
52 0:48:22 TROY, Deirdre Midleton AC F 09:40.2 721 469
53 0:48:23 MCGRATH, Marie Midleton AC F40 09:40.4 671 470
54 0:48:44 O'CONNOR, Barbara Midleton AC F35 09:44.6 719 473
55 0:52:07 O'LOMASNEY, Lisa Midleton AC F40 10:25.2 729 489
56 0:56:29 GEARY, Michelle Midleton AC F40 11:17.6 744 498
57 0:58:06 O'LEARY, Clare Midleton AC F 11:37.0 735 502
There were 57 finishers in the Midleton AC team.

Monday 21 June 2010


New Race Coming Soon please pass on the word



Best of luck to all in the Shanagarry '5' on Thursday - race time is 8pm - HQ is the Marquee situated in the GAA Grounds. ARRIVE EARLY.

Please also see attached info from organisers regarding the AIB sponsored - Daniel Kingston Memorial 5K in Macroom on Thursday July 1
============

Things are now busy now organizing the event at the moment. We hope to have a large turn-out on the evening. There are plenty prizes for all age-groups and categories (approx 70) and also we have spot prizes of weekends away organized also. Once we have all that defined I will email you and let you know the breakdown so it can add to the advertising of the run on the radio and incentivise your running members to come along!

As a bit of background

On the 10th of February 2009 Daniel Kingston sadly passed away after a long battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma aged only 25 years. Daniel grew up with his parents, Vincent & Julien, and four sisters Fiona, Catherine, Juliet and Claire in Macroom. Throughout his life he had a keen interest in participating and watching sports. He was a keen footballer with Macroom GAA, a strong swimmer and runner and in the last few years he developed an interest in yoga and pilates. Outside of sports Daniel displayed great determination in his education and achieved a first class honours degree from UCC while he battled with his illness. Daniel was a great fighter and always believed in the cure. His attitude remained positive throughout all his treatment. He used the facilities in ARC Cork Cancer Support House for support and guidance. Last year over 700 of Daniel's family, friends and extended friends took part in Cork City Marathon on 1st of June and others took part in a cycle from Malin to Mizen Head at the end of July. We raised over €155,000 for ARC Cancer Support House. This year we, Daniel’s family and friends, are organizing the inaugural Daniel Kingston Road Race which will be held in Macroom on Thursday, July 1. The 5 km race is part of the BHAA (BusinessHouses Athletic Association) calendar. Runners and walkers are encouraged to participate as a way of remembering Daniel in his hometown. The race will start in the Square at 8 p.m. – last registrations at 7.45 p.m. Many prizes for teams and age groups. Refreshments will be provided afterwards. Entry fee €5 and €8. It is the aim of our family to make it an annual event in Macroom.


Tuesday 15 June 2010

Book Launch

Midleton AC will span the generation gap on this Thursday evening when the thriving East Cork club officially launches a pictorial history of the club dating back to mid sixties.

Ballayndreen resident Jim McMurtry who is President of the club is the man behind this venture. A few years back he began collecting old photographs with a view to producing a book that would encompass all aspects of the club. The response to his appeal for help was huge and the nett result is that Midleton AC has now a superb publication which is sure to be of interest to anybody who has any links with the club since it’s foundation in the mid sixties.

In those early days the club had some fantastic performers and some outstanding personalities. Many original links are still retained through current members whilst several new individuals have become involved in recent years to maintain the high standards set by this famous club.

Today Midleton AC boasts one of the highest membership counts in the county, a thriving under age structure combines with an adult section which has close on 150 members. Thursday’s special function which is being hosted by Midelton GAA Pavilion offers a rare opportunity for all strands of the club to meet and mingle. The event is being aimed at people of all ages an indeed anybody who may wish to drop by with a view to joining the club. SPREAD THE WORD PLEASE!

Cork senior hurling star John Gardiner will be on hand to perform the official launch of this souvenir publication, copies of which may be purchased at a cost of 15 euro.



Function runs from 8pm onwards - Disco, refreshments - official launch at approx 9.30pm

Sunday 13 June 2010

Senior Section News

Book Launch, Marathon Memories And Races Galore

Mid summer is upon us and whilst many of our club members are reflecting on last week’s Cork City Marathon, others are plotting out their busy summer schedule, but all of us should be ‘off the road’ on this Thursday night for a special club occasion.

Jim McMurtry’s magnificent pictorial history book of Midleton AC spanning 5 decades will be officially launched at a special function which will be hosted at Midleton GAA Pavilion. Events begin at 8pm and apart from the formalities there will be refreshments and a disco later to follow. This is an occasion for all strands of our club, adult and juvenile, an a rare opportunity for both sections to come together and now doubt jog a few memories from the corridors of time.

A few years back Jim McMurtry was on his marks and up and running rather quickly as the he began to gather photographs from current club members past and present. The idea grew as the content grew and soon Jim was looking at a more ambitious and detailed project which turned out to be a marathon not a sprint

The man from Ballyandreen has been relentless in his pursuit of material and has done an absolutely fantastic job in compiling a book that will create treasured memories for many families from all over East Cork. The publication is a credit to Jim’s outstanding dedication to the cause and thus he deserves huge support on this Thursday as a ‘thank you’ gesture for all his work.

Midleton AC is now the envy of several athletic clubs across the county and further afield. Both at juvenile and adult level our club has rocketed in popularity over the past decade. Please tell your family, friends and any potential new members about Thursday’s function.

On behalf of all of us at Midleton AC – congratulations are extended to Jim McMurtry.


Marathon Review

Kevin Smith and Shane Cooney ran almost stride for stride for much of last week’s Marathon, before Kevin pushed on near the end to cross the line 2:58:46 with Shane coming soon behind in 2:59:25. The guys deserve a huge word of congratulations for breaking the magical 3 hour mark. Many runners strive to reach this land mark but only a small percentage succeed. Both had put in the necessary preparation for the big day with Kevin having used the Limerick Marathon as a warm up for the Cork event and Shane who missed the Connemara Marathon topping up his training for the Cork race.

Unfortunately Kevin’s time did not appear on the classified results as he lost his timing chip along the way. Hopefully after putting his case to the powers that be the situation can be rectified in the near future.

Elsewhere Mick Murk Murphy made an impressive debut over the distance crossing the line in 3:36:52, whilst Fergal O’Meara, Ned Ramsell, Adam Duchnicz and Vincent O’Neill all came home comfortably under the 4 hour mark. Kevin Morrisson followed up his exploits in Paris with another very solid run just over the 4 hour mark whilst Mary B Walsh who produced a big finish and Mary Toher kept the ladies flag flying for their performances. Congratulations to one and all!

As for the relay event we had a host of representatives on a variety of teams. Despite the inclement weather conditions, reports indicate that all enjoyed the occasion and no doubt many will be back again nest year. Well done to all!

Glanmire Success

Despite damp weather conditions over 300 took part in the Glanmire ‘5’ recently. It proved a very successful occasion for our club with numerous individual and team honours captured.
Prize winners were Michelle Nolan (2nd overall after another superb run – 31:32), Sally Drennan – 1st Over 40, Joan Hough – 1st Over 50, Margaret Barry – 1st Over 60, Donal Broderick – 2nd Over 40, John Cashman – 2nd Over 45, Edmond O’Sullivan 3rd – Over 45, Neilus Aherne – 2nd Over 50 and John O’Halloran – 3rd Over 55.
Midleton AC runners had also great success in team events with our members on the honours list with Midleton UDC, Flexible Connectors, Department of Education and Midleton News teams. Congrats to all!


Hectic Line Up

The fixtures just keep on coming on the roads over the few months. Holiday time means that most people will miss a few fixtures along the way but with such a packed programme of races, there will still be ample opportunity to race. In fact we are in the best region of the country when it comes to race alternatives. The East Cork region is becoming almost the running capital of the south and with the West Waterford Series and The Ballyhoura Series just over the county bounds the options and alternatives are always varied.

The following is the list of races for the remainder of this month and the diary for July. Note the new additions to the annual calendar in Dunmanway, Macroom, Youghal, Ballinrostig and Carrigtwohill.


June
Tue 15th – John Buckley 5K – Marina, Cork – 8pm
Fri 18th – Bilboa 10K – Cappamore County Limerick – 8pm
Fri 18th – Ras na Rinne – 6 Miles – Ring County Waterford – 8pm
Sun 20th – Dunmanway 10K – 2pm
Thur 24th – Ballycotton Series – Shanagarry 5 Miles – 8pm
Fri 25th – Courtmacsherry 10K – 8pm
Fri 25th – Dromana 5 Miles – County Waterford – 8pm

July
Thu 1 – AIB Macroom, 5K – 8pm
Wed 7 – EMC 5K – Ovens – 8pm
Thu 8 – Corkbeg 5 Miles – Whitegate – 8pm
Fri 9 – Dungarvan 5 Miles – 8pm
Fri 16th – Donoughmore 7 Miles
Sun 18 – Youghal 4 Miles – Charity Race – 2pm
Thu 22 – Ballycotton Series – Churchtown 5 Mile – 8pm
Sun 25th – Ballinrostig 5K – 12noon
Wed 28th – Carrigtwohil 5K – 8pm
Fri 30th – Kinslae Regatta 5 Mile – 8pm
Fri 30th – Ballymacarbry, Co Waterford – 5 Miles – 7.30pm


Track Dates

The next graded Track & Field meeting will be at the C.I.T Track on Friday week June 25th. Log on to the Cork County Board web site for further information. Remember the Cork City Sports will also be at C.I.T this year on Saturday July 3.



Training

Remember the regular training sessions – Monday 6pm at Midleton CBS and Tuesday – 7pm from the Community Centre.

In the meantime ‘keep on running’.

Friday 11 June 2010

C"mon Everybody
We need you and your family at the launch
of
Midleton AC Through The Ages
next Thur June 17Th
@ Midleton GAA Pavillion at 8pm
The book will be officially launched by
Noreen Murphy Chairperson of the Cork County Board.
We want and need everyone to be there, kids are most welcome as the Juveniles will also be in attendance .
Disco dancing, Food
and plenty of Crack guaranteed

Tuesday 8 June 2010


CONGRATULATIONS

TO ALL MIDLETON AC FINISHERS IN THE 2010 CORK CITY MARATHON

- ALSO WELL DONE TO ALL OUR RUNNERS WHO TOOK PART IN THE RELAY event and to those who acted as pacers

- more to follow later

Results available at http://www.corkcitymarathon.ie/

Results are incorrect in that the First Midleton AC athlete home was Kevin Smith in 2.58. It appears his chip did not work.Well done again Kevin.

Saturday 5 June 2010

BEST OF LUCK TO ALL OUR CLUB MEMBERS TAKING PART IN
THE CORK CITY MARATHON ON MONDAY
ENJOY THE OCCASION!
Keep On Running
ATTENTION ALL MIDLETON A.C. MEMBERS -

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

Date: Thursday June 17th.

Venue: MIDLETON. GAA main Hall.

Time: 8pm – 12ish

Present: Lord Mayor, Town Clerk and a well known celebrity…….

Tea/coffee cakes etc will be provided and there will be a disco til late.



ALL MEMBERS ARE ASKED TO ATTEND AND TO PROMOTE THE EVENT AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. BRING YOUR PARTNERS/FAMILY.

JUNIOR CLUB MEMBERS AND FAMILIES WILL ALSO ATTEND.

A GREAT NIGHT OUT SO COME ALONG AND GET INVOLVED!!!



Tuesday 1 June 2010

Midleton AC News Update

Marathon Monday

First off this week let’s focus on next Monday’s Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon. It does appear as if our club will again be well represented in the big event. In fact, I’m still attempting to do spot checks as to who is involved in either sector of the event.

After their exploits in Paris Kevin Morrisson and Fergal O’Meara have definitely confirmed they are going to tackle the 26 miler again in Cork. The guys are two of our most dedicated club servants and we wish the popular duo all the best on Monday. Kevin Smith scorched around Limerick in what was just a ’warm up’ for Cork and is sure to produce another big performance on Monday by the banks of the Lee.

Shane Cooney who was unable to take his place in Connemara due to work commitments has extended his training plan and should also produce a big run in Cork. Meantime Mick Murphy is all set for his maiden voyage over the distance and having completed his schedule should also be set up for a positive performance.

Mary B.Walshe has plenty of marathon experience behind her and is another one of our competitors who is well capable of a solid showing, whilst Mary Toher will continue her busy programme by again taking part in the big race.

There is also plenty of involvement in the popular relay section. A group of our newcomers from last year have continued to make huge progress on the road scene and on Monday Helen Geary, Sile Kieran, Marion Cotter, Bernie Twomey and Margaret Twohig will form their own team to tackle the 26.2 mile trip.

Likewise Ann Savage, Ciara Coughlan, Mags Mulcahy, Trish Murphy and Elaine Hennessy are gearing up their team for the big day.

Meantime Sinead Bracken is undertaking 3 legs of the race totalling 15.8 miles, Peter Gunning and his colleagues from Saleen National School are also involved whilst our own Claire O’Leary is running with her team on behalf of the Midleton Educate Together School. Yvonne Kennedy and her work team are also looking forward to the occasion. Claire Fitzgerald, Sandra Bohan and Christine Murphy are amongst out other entrants.

Overall in the absence of the aforementioned starters list and at the risk of offending those who may be omitted, we conclude by saying an overall word of good wishes to all our members who are involved.

Guidelines

To those of you involved the following info’ from Marathon Head Office may be of help.

Registration

Registration is in City Hall on Saturday 5th (10am-6pm) and Sunday 6th (12-6pm). All marathon entrants and at least one member of each team must attend. All are welcome to come and check out the sports shops, suppliers and other races that will be taking part in the Expo.

Course Changes

This year we've made two major changes to the course. We've removed the one stretch of the course that had consistently been criticised - see, we really do listen to you! It was a mile-long dragging hill at about 22 miles on the Model Farm Road, followed by the seemingly endless Carrigrohane Road. It's been replaced by a narrow but mostly flat stretch of walkway at Lough Mahon and part of the old Passage West/Marina railway line. On the Model Farm Road, the course now turns right onto Inichigaggin Lane, joining the Carrigrohane Road.

There are a couple of smaller changes to the course that previous participants who are running again this year should note:
• On the Blackpool Bypass, at the junction of Watercourse Road by Maddens Buildings, there's a short 70m coned loop north before you turn right and back into the city centre.
• On Lower Friars Walk, the course used to take a right hand turn onto Pearse Road before it joined Connolly Road. It now runs straight up Lower Friars Walk onto Connolly.
• The lap around The Lough has been removed, so you now run straight past The Lough onto Hartland's Avenue.
• At the junction of Western Road, you'll now turn left and immediately right again to enter Mardyke Walk, running straight ahead towards Sli Cumman na mBan.
• The final approach to the finish line has been slightly revised. Instead of crossing the river at Christy Ring Bridge, you'll now run straight along the north quays onto Camden Quay, turning onto St Patrick's Bridge and straight onto the wonderful finish on St Patrick's Street.

As in previous years, there's an important time limit on reaching the Jack Lynch Tunnel (c. 7 miles). You must be through the tunnel by 11.30, to allow for a 12 o'clock re-opening of the tunnel.

Race Numbers
As before, the relay numbers will have a blue wash and will be worn front and back. The marathon numbers have a red wash and are only worn on the front.

Timing Chips

The timing chips this year are disposable - you don't have to give them back! We'll have bins at the finish line, if you do want to recycle the chip. Please move away from the finish line to remove your chip.

Water

Thanks to Dunnes Stores, we'll have 250ml bottles of H2O Kidz at all 13 water stations.


Races Galore

There has been a wealth of racing action on the roads over the past few weeks. Participation levels were again huge at Fota and Ballyandreen with a very strong turn out also especially by our club members at the Emer Casey Memorial Race in Youghal.

Our review begins by saying a word of congratulations to Helen Geary and Margaret Twohig two of our new signings last autumn who finished first and second respectively in the Midleton Fitness Centre 5K Charity event recently. Both have shown excellent form already this season and deserve great credit for their displays which scooped the top prizes.

Cheetah Run

The Cheetah Run at Fota Wild Life Park as expected attracted an entry similar to last year. Midleton AC participants were again to the fore with numerous runners enjoying super performances over the 4 mile course.

In fact overall a number of new names made it into the roll of honour. Our ladies in particular shone on the night with the performances of Christine Murphy (1st Over 40) and Trish Murphy (2nd Over 45) particularly laudable. Michele Nolan again enjoyed an excellent outing finishing third lady overall in a time of 25:16. Helen Geary followed her earlier win with an impressive 31:05 which saw finish as third lady over 40, whilst Margaret Rohan was third home in the Over 50 category.

As for the men Stanislaw Byczek collected the third Over 45 prize, Neilus Aherne was second home over 50 and Donie O’Connell had a great outing to come third Over 60.

Youghal 10K

Soaring temperatures were the order of the day as the sun split the stones in Youghal for the Emer Casey Memorial 10K last Sunday week.
Here Noel O’Regan made light of the conditions to finish in 35:23 and secure a super ninth place finish overall. Peter Gunning also continued his return to form with a fine run of 42:37 with Sally Drennan just behind leading our ladies challenge. Joan Hough, Breda Cahill, Marie Murphy, Elaine Hennessy, Claire O’Leary, Mary O’Keeffe, Yvonne Kennedy and Barbara O’Connor were amongst our other strong ladies contingent to brave the scorching conditions and enjoy good outings.

As for the roll of honour there plenty of prizes brought home with our ladies (Marie Murphy, Claire Fitzgerald, Trish Murphy and Margaret Barry) winning the top team prize. Individual honours were won by Breda Cahill, Anne Marie Perry, Danny McCarthy and the aforementioned Breda Cahill, Joan Hough and Sally Drennan.

Ballyandreen ‘5’

So to Ballyandreen last Thursday and as expected the record book dating back over 30 years was torn to shreds as 520 crossed the finish line. The graph from last summer went from this corresponding race showing 411 to 507 for the climax in Ballycotton and a similar trend could happen this time around.

Ballyandreen was looking its best as Ireland’s original Summer Series got on it’s way for 2010.

All credit to the organisers who again ensured the smooth running of the event despite the multitudes present.

The results which were delivered as efficiently as ever showed a 69 strong entry from Midleton AC. Sub 30 minute men Noel O’Regan and Kevin Smith were a class apart with their performances, but a member of Midleton AC Juvenile Club David Murphy (30:51) made a spectacular debut on the 5 mile circuit.

Michelle Nolan and Sally Drennan again led our ladies home with Michelle clocking 31:56 to finish in 6th place overall and Sally (34:49) again proving her superiority as top lady Over 40.
Neilus Aherne continued his great form by winning the Over 50 category again whilst Margaret Rohan and Margaret Barry enhanced their respective results list with a second place finish in their categories.

Brian Nolan (who continues to make great progress), Billy O’Sullivan, John O’Connell, Kieran Murphy, Mary Toher, Caroline Geary, Deirdre Aherne, Yvonne Fitzgerald and the returning Simon Thompson were amongst our other runners to have steady runs over the difficult course. A special word again to the many runners from our club who made their debut in the event, all completed the course in fine fashion and are on their way to collecting a coveted plaque at the end of the famous Series.

Elsewhere Denis Kelleher travelled north to take part in the Newry Half Marathon on Monday last.

Glanmire

Despite damp weather conditions over 300 took part in the Glanmire ‘5’ last evening. It proved a very successful occasion for our club with numerous individual and team honours captured.
Prize winners were Michelle Nolan (2nd overall after another superb run – 31:32), Sally Drennan – 1st Over 40, Joan Hough – 1st Over 50, Margaret Barry – 1st Over 60, Donal Broderick – 2nd Over 40, John Cashman – 2nd Over 45, Edmond O’Sullivan 3rd – Over 45, Neilus Aherne – 2nd Over 50 and John O’Halloran – 3rd Over 55.
Midleton AC runners had also great success in team events with our members on the honours list with Midleton UDC, Flexible Connectors, Department of Education and Midleton News teams. Congrats to all!


Looking Ahead

So to what lies ahead of us over the next few weeks. Following the Grandon’s 5 Mile Race in Glanmire on Monday of this week the action switches away from East Cork to Doneraile on Friday evening with Race 3 in the Ballyhoura Series, co-ordinated by Michael Herlihy who won the Midleton ‘5’ this year and the Cork City Marathon last year.
A number of athletic clubs in the region are supporting a series of traditional style road races and walks. This series is being promoted by Ballyhoura Failte in order to boost Tourism and physical activity in the Ballyhoura region. All of the events are held at scenic locations and it is hoped that this will add to the great friendly social atmosphere which is common at these events. This Friday’s race at Doneraile Park has an 8pm start and is being organised in conjunction with Mallow AC. Two weeks further down the road the Bilboa Ger Mullane Memorial 10K is the next fixture in that series on Friday June 18th.
The next big upcoming fixture after the Marathon on the BHAA diary is the John Buckley Sports 5K on Tuesday June 15th. The fast Marina Road circuit always attracts a huge entry. The race has an 8pm start.
On the following Sunday there is a new addition to the June fixture list. The Dunmanway 10K has a 2pm start on Sunday 20th with entries being taken at the GAA Club from 12noon.
Incredibly as we pass mid summer’s day we are back to the Ballycotton Series later that week with the Shanagarry ‘5’ on Thursday 24th.

- A quick word about events in the West Waterford Series where 3 races are taking place during June.
On Monday next the Touraneena 5K will be held, on Friday June 18th it’s Ras Na Rinne (6 Miles on road/beach) at Ring and then on the following Friday June 25th it’s the Dromana 5 Miler. Enquiries on these events should be made to James Veale on 086-8184762,


- With new races to follow in Macroom, Ballinrostig, Youghal and Carrigtwohill during July the summer of 2010 promises to be busiest ever on the local road running scene.

Track & Field ( Open To All)

The Cork County Athletics Board has announced a series of graded events during the course of the summer months which begin with a fixture at The Mardyke on this Tuesday evening. The details are as follows –
- For athletes aged 17 years and older. Track Events will, if necessary, be divided into separate races based on performance, which could involve mixed races.
It would be appreciated if clubs/athletes would help out on the night.
Entries will be accepted on the night. Clubs are requested to obtain commitment to the events in which they plan to compete and forward the lists to Fergus O’Donovan odknkwd@iol.ie . Entry Forms available on www.corkathletics.orgEntry fee €2 per night, each athlete will receive a performance certificate. Next date is June 25th at CIT Track – 7pm.

Training
A reminder that there will be no training on Bank Holiday Monday, but the usual Tuesday run will take place from the Community Centre at 7pm. The Monday sessions will resume again at the CBS Field on June 14 (6pm).

Tour

Edmond O’Sullivan reports good progress has been made with the November trip to Lanzarote with many of the tour party already making plans for what should be a hectic few days.

Book Launch
At present we are waiting to determine a launch date and venue for the Club History Book . An announcement will be made shortly. In the meantime ‘keep on running’.