The Slaney Olympic Trail Little Sliabh Bhui Trail Race took place on Sunday on Ballycadden Hill north of Ferns. The race was also part of the Irish Mountain Running Association’s Spring Trail league so there were quite a number of IMRA runners taking part.

As the mist cleared from the hills the fifty two runners set out on a four mile loop on undulating forest tracks. Thanks to the recent dry spell conditions underfoot were excellent.

Paul Gibbons of SBR moved in to an early lead and held on to win comfortably in 23.25. Ger Maloney of St Pauls finished 13 seconds behind with Niall O’Connor of Slaney Olympic taking third spot in 25.32. Two visitors to the County, Sean Gethin and IMRA president, Dermot Murphy, were 4^th and 5^th. Eleven of the next fifteen places were Wexford runners.

First lady home was Dairine Frawley in 31.37. Second was Ellen Ryan with Michelle Murphy of Slaney Olympic third.

In the veteran categories Pat O’Neill of SBR was 1^st over 40. Mick Morrissey (Slaney Olympic) was 1^st over 50and matthew Kavanagh was the over 60 winner. First over 40 female was Jennifer Murphy and Mag Dunphy (Slaney Olympic) was first lady over 50.

Prize giving took place after the race in The Courtyard in Ferns.

Results