https://midletonathleticclub.niftyentries.com/Midleton-5-Mile
BALLINTOTIS UPDATES
The big night is now almost upon us again with the ninth running of the Ballintotis '4' Mile Road race taking place on this Thursday April 19th. A lot of work has been done over the past few months in preparation for what we hope will be another occasion to remember.
James McCarthy of the host club East Cork AC has won the event in all the previous 8 years and last year got the better of club mate Sean McGrath after a titanic struggle. The ladies honours 12 months ago went to Irish International Claire McCarthy who has distinguished herself with some super performances in the green singlet since then.
The success of the Ballintotis event which was brought to the picturesque venue by East Cork A.C in 2010, is due to a number of factors. It's fair to say that the generous sponsorship and backing from the local business community has been a key component in it's rise and with this in mind, the local Ballintotis Race Committee wish to acknowledge again the continued backing of a number of their loyal major sponsors.
Sincere thanks to main sponsors Castlemarty Resort, Trabolgan Holiday Centre, Garryvoe Hotel, McCarthy & McGrath Auctioneers, Ballintotis Fit 4Life Club, Market Green Shopping Centre, Michael Kennedy Plant & Agri and all other sponsors. A major new sponsor in the shape of Ahern's Centra, Castlemartyr, Carrigtwohill and Killeagh has also been added this year with Simon Ahern and his team generously sponsoring a souvenir running buff for all participants.
Here are some updates and advise for those taking part this year in the race or walk or indeed coming to watch the action.
Car Parks
There will be 2 main Car Parks for runners and walkers. These will be located in close proximity to the Race HQ at Ballintotis Community Centre. At different times, different Car Parks may be prioritised to cater for traffic flow - so the advise is to please follow the instructions of gardai and stewards who will be on duty. In relation to the Car Parks on race route – cars will not be allowed exit until all runners have passed.
Race Entry Desks
Entry Desks are located in Main Hall of Community Centre – Open from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday and from 1pm onwards on Thursday. Entry Fee is 10 euro, which includes free running buff.. Please enter via the side door of the hall.
Those who have entered on line in advance must also collect their number and running buff in Community Centre at the aforementioned times at SEPERATE designated desks.
Changing Facilities/ Toilets
A Marquee is located on the green adjacent to Church Car Park. Toilets only are located in the Church Car Park area.
Race Start/Finish
The race begins at 8pm sharp – the Start Line is approx 200 meters from the Church on way to Main Road. The Finish Line is in front of the Church. ALL RUNNERS ARE ASKED TO BEGIN THE RACE IN THE TIME ZONE, WHICH REFLECTS THEIR EXPECTED FINISHING TIME. The year’s race is again chipped timed by Ronan Wogan and the team at myrunresults and as always there will be with timing mats at the start and finish line.
Water/Refreshments
Bottled water will be available immediately after the race. Please keep moving through to the water area once you have come through the Finish Line.
Refreshments will be served after the race in the Community Centre. Please enter the Community Centre via the SIDE door after the race. – A second marquee has been erected at the front of the Community Centre where runners can mingle after receiving their refreshments.
Prize Giving
Prize giving will take place in the Main Hall after the race at approx 9.20pm. Prizes will be awarded to the first 6 mens and 6 ladies across the line whilst there will be first, second and third prizes in al the age categories, beginning with F35 and M40.
Spot Prizes
Runners should check the back of their race number to see if it includes a “spot prize winner’ label. If you are a winner, please collect your prize from the stage area in the hall before the race.
Walk
The walk begins at 6.30pm sharp. Entries will be taken in the Community Centre from 5.30pm onwards. When entering, check the back of your number to see if you win a spot prize – these can be claimed immediately. Refreshments served for all walkers in the Marquee at the front the Community Centre immediately after the conclusion of the Walk.
Stewards Meeting
Help Required To Ensure Success
In the few days before the big race and in particular on the day after, there is a considerable amount of work to be done. The race has obviously soared in popularity over the last few years and the committee want to ensure the high standards that have been set are maintained. Anybody who can lend an hour or two on this Wednesday evening 18th from 7pm to 9pm or indeed on the day itself would we very welcome. The hours after the race and in fact the morning after are also key times when help is needed. Please come along or call Sean on 086-8240094 or John 086-8778182 if you can assist.
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Catering - Food Require
Again with another very large entry expected, all donations of sandwiches and home baking would be really appreciated. Please contact Jean O'Gorman 086 3319101 if you are willing to help. Food can be delivered to the Community Centre from 1pm on Thursday.
Best of Luck
Finally, in conclusion we extend the very best of luck to all taking part in the race. Enjoy the occasion and the pre race and post race atmosphere.
