With most other sporting fixtures cancelled due to the extreme weather conditions it was left to the athletics community to fill the void and in particular the brave and courageous cross country runners who took part in the County Senior Championships hosted by Dundrum AC in Annacarthy.
Four ladies and one lone man represented the Club at these prestigious championships and all have to be complimented on their dedication to the cause. The cold combined with the wind, snow and sleet and the wet underfoot conditions all made life difficult for the athletes but credit to them as they served up a great performance. Angela Fogarty, following a very steady start, made her way through the field and was well in contention for honours right throughout the remainder of the race. Nothing separated the leaders and it was only on the final lap that Carmel Fitzgibbon, Thurles Crokes broke clear with Angela, Kealy Tideswell, Clonmel and Dympna Ryan, Dundrum all in close proximity. With a tremendous last lap Angela moved into third place and despite pressure being put on her over the final 100mts she dug even deeper to claim that third spot and her first individual senior medal. Our other three athletes were equally defying the conditions and putting in tremendous performances along with battling hard for favourable positions for the team event. Louise Fogarty came through for 8th with Sara Healy in 13th and Susan Fogarty 16th to clinch the bronze team medals with a score of 24pts. What can we say of their performances but to compliment them on defying the odds and gaining yet another podium finish.
Brian Carroll was our lone representative in the mens event and also had to contend with the bitterly cold and wet conditions. Being a single contestant brings about its own issues but with athletes in front and behind to feed off Brian gave a worthy performance to cross the line in 24th place overall.
A huge congratulations to the five athletes on their participation on Sunday and equally to all the other athletes who braved the conditions to serve up two great senior races.
