Finn Valley travelled south to Athlone on Saturday to compete in both the men’s and women’s competitions in the National League. This is a team competition with the desired outcome to reach the Premier Division Final from a start list of 16 clubs, meaning Finn Valley had to get into the top 8 to achieve that target. The end result was a very positive one as both the men and the women’s teams got inside top 8 and will now compete in the National League Final at Tullamore on July 28th. This is always an enjoyable outing for the club as a group and on this occasion, it was no different.
Having travelled with many young athletes having their first experience of inter club competition, team leaders John Rogan and Shauna Carlin can be very happy with the finish position of both teams. While every point was chased to the extreme as was necessary, the outcome justified the effort. All the athletes deserve great credit and just to note a few outstanding performances that brought in strong points.
We had in the mens; Oisín Thompson (long jump), Joseph Gillespie (triple Jump) and Jon Jo Doherty (5000m). In the women’s, we had strong points from Arlene Crossan (400m), Sinead McConnell (walk), Bridget McDyer (weight for distance), Janine Boyle (100/200m). While these points were vital, it’s important to emphasise that this was a very close competition the value of each and every point counted. Both teams showed excellent club spirit and pride in competing for the club.
Hence the women’s final eight teams are Dundrum, Carlow, Ratoath, Conliffe, Lagan Valley, Raheny, Leevale with Finn valley making up the eight. In the men’s division, the premier finalists are Dundrum, Nenagh, Ratoath, Leevale, Tir Chonaill, Conliffe, Waterford and off course Finn valley. The exciting aspect is having reached the finals on the back of outstanding performances from our senior athletes at the National Senior Championships the previous week.
On Sunday, the venue was Tullamore for Day 1 of the National Underage Championships where the most noteworthy return came from Jasmine Barrett Doherty who medaled in her long jump with a big PB. Other top 6 performers were Pauric McGettigan (steeplechase), Odhran Mcbrearty (800m) andCaoimhe McElhinney (long jump).
This weekend we look forward to what is a popular 5k race in conjunction with the Rathmullan Festival. It’s a 7.30pm start, entries online or on the evening.
Those who are participating in club activities or using club facilities are reminded that it’s a requirement from the club that current membership is up to date. This can be accessed online.
Images: Courtesy of Finn Valley Athletics Club