As the saying goes ‘Build it and they will come’ and that was enacted in Duleek on the 16th August for the Indaver Duleek 10k. The race which is hosted by Duleek and District AC arrived after weeks and indeed months of meticulous planning. The race, which is in its third year attracted almost 400 runners and there was an international flavour to this year’s race with athletes from Spain, Germany and the USA taking part as well as some of the best road athletes in North Leinster. Conditions were favourable for the event with temperatures on the day reaching the low twenties and ensured hectic activity at each of the water stops. The race headquarters was Duleek Bellewstown GAA club, where the race started and finished.
From early morning there was a hive of activity as the finishing touches were put to the event as athletes started to arrive. There was the customary warm up at 10.30 with athletes making their way to the start line to tackle the 10k course. In the glorious sunshine the men’s race was won by Paul Stephenson from Rathfarnham in an impressive time of 33.11 followed closely by Colm O’Connell from Donore Harriers and Paul Smith from Drogheda. The first female home on the day was Mary Hanley from Na Fianna followed closely by Zofia Paduchowicz and Anne O’Brien. Drogheda and District AC rounded off a very successful day at the event by scooping both men’s and ladies team prizes. However the loudest cheer of the day was reserved for Susan Gleeson from Duleek and District AC who took second place in her category. From there it was on to sample the post race hospitality and cheer on the kids in the ever popular juvenile races.
