The Bweeng 5k once again solidified its reputation as a must-attend event in the racing calendar, with Race 3 of the Rebel Diamond League unfolding in spectacular fashion last weekend. Held in the picturesque village of Bweeng, the event was a celebration of athleticism, community spirit, and top-notch organisation.
The day dawned with a radiant sun blessing the runners as they gathered in Bweeng, a place now synonymous with personal bests for many athletes. The village was adorned with flags and bunting, exuding a festive ambiance that set the stage for a thrilling race. The meticulous planning and effort put in by the Bweeng Trail Blazers and the community were evident, creating an atmosphere that could rival major city marathons.
The race itself was nothing short of exhilarating, with Aidan Noone of Leevale setting an early blistering pace, leading a strong pack through the initial downhill stretch of 800 metres. However, it was Barry Twohig of St Finbarrs who emerged as the eventual race winner, showcasing his dominance as he surged ahead around the 1k mark. Twohig, no stranger to road and trail victories, had earlier triumphed in the Bweeng IMRA race, and he was determined to claim another victory on the road this time.
The battle for podium positions was intense, with contenders like Darragh O’Leary (Killarney Valley), Adhamh O’Leary (St Finbarrs), Donal Coakley (Leevale), and Barry O’Donovan (Cork Track Club) vying for supremacy. The Bweeng Crossroads provided a dramatic backdrop as the runners pushed through the final stretch, cheered on by a spirited crowd and energising music.
The women's race saw Hannah Steeds leading a formidable field, with Michelle Kenny and Nadine Forde completing a Leevale sweep of the top three positions. The depth of talent was evident, with an impressive 16 female runners clocking under 20 minutes—a testament to the strength of the women's running scene.
Age categories every five years added another layer of excitement to the event, with prizes flowing generously to deserving winners. Post-race refreshments ensured that every participant left satisfied, having experienced a day of competitive yet fun-filled racing. For detailed results and category winners, enthusiasts can visit myrunresults.com.
This race marked the conclusion of Race 3 of 4 in the Rebel Diamond League, and like its predecessors, it saw a surge in participation numbers. The Bweeng Trail Blazers and the community of Bweeng deserve applause for orchestrating yet another top-class event that firmly establishes itself among the elite races in Ireland.
The Rebel Diamond League comes to a close this week, with the final race taking place in Buttevant on Friday, May 17th. The Buttevant 4-Mile is sure to round off the league in style and draw a line under a successful Year 1 for this initiative. Stay tuned to Run Republic for a preview of this eagerly anticipated race!
Featured Image: Joe Anne Photos