While our ladies would normally be making the headlines, it was the turn of our men to claim the limelight this weekend and what a performance they produced at the County Novice B cross-country championships on home soil. Jody Sweeney has been our main performer this season, participating in many of the cross-country championships at County and Munster level, and these races certainly stood to him on Sunday as he battled hard over the 6k to come away with the County title. Run over five laps he was with the leading group throughout the first couple of laps and on lap three made his move which was not matched by any of the other contenders. Leading from the front he made a huge effort and extended his lead throughout the following two laps to finish clear of the field and claim his first County title – County Novice B champion – and first gold medal. While Jody was heading for glory the rest of the team were running solidly and putting in a massive effort in search of the team title. Richard Daly, Brian Carroll, Brendan Delaney, and John Renehan had physically nothing left in the tank following the race, such was their intent and commitment on bringing the cup back to Moyne, but their gutsy performances fell agonisingly short by 1pont in that regard. With Jody in top spot, Richard claimed 5th, Brian 8th, Brendan 9th and John 17th to finish on 14pts while the winning team finished on 13pts. The training, teamwork, and effort these lads have put in over the past number of weeks was second to none and deserved the success on Sunday, albeit silver team medals. A massive well done to all five athletes.
Edel Delaney was our only athlete in the Ladies 3k, and she also deserves great praise for a very strong run. Edel led the field through the first of the laps and with the pace increasing throughout lost touch with the leaders, but was nonetheless within a shout of a medal, throughout. In the end following a terrific performance she finished 6th overall. Well done Edel.
The club would also like to acknowledge the support of the Daly Family in hosting these B Championships. They have never been found wanting when asked to host an event and we as a club are indebted to them.
