With 69 runners and 12 walkers, this year’s Clonroche 5K broke all records for a Summer League race. Peter Matthews of DSD led out a quality field with twelve runners sub six minute miling.

Conditions were perfect for running on a balmy, still July evening. The flat, two lap course started out down a slightly muddy lane under a canopy of trees before continueing on quiet country roads.

Peter Matthews who won the Kilmore 5K recently came home in 15.34, some 50 seconds ahead of Mick Kelly of Gowran who won The Ballagh 4 mile last week. Paul Gibbons who had a successful evening at the County Track Championships on Wednesday finished third. Jason O’Connor who also competed well on the track on Wednesday was fourth overall and first Slaney Olympian.

Maria Griffen of St Josephs won the ladies race in 19.32. Another visitor, Deirdre Ni Cearbhaill of Crusaders was less than a minute behind to take second spot with Lillian Lawless of Macamores finishing third. Martina O’Sullivan, also fresh from a successful track championships, finished fourth and first Slaney woman. Full results are below.

It was great to see runners from so many clubs taking part. There were six Wexford clubs represented and five more from outside the county.

The adult race was followed by a kiddies obstacle race organised by Jason O’Connor. All the children were presented with medals. Then it was back to the Cloughban GAA clubhouse for tea andsandwiches before prize giving.

Well done to race director Neil Hudson, to all who helped with marshalling and timing and to the sandwich and bun makers.

Results

< td valign="bottom" width="64">28.58