Last night’s IMRA Leinster League Church Mountain race offered a challenging and exhilarating experience for runners, as they tackled a demanding 9.55km course with 545m of elevation. This event, the penultimate race of the league, set the stage for the highly anticipated finale scheduled for Wednesday, August 7th, at Trooperstown Hill.
The race saw an enthusiastic response from participants, many of whom expressed their admiration for the event’s unique qualities. First-time runners were particularly impressed, with several stating that the experience would compel them to return for future events. The acclaim was not limited to the scenic and challenging course; runners were full of praise for the event’s organisation, particularly the opening sermon, which set a memorable tone for the race.
Kudos were widely directed towards Race Director Liam Mooney and his team of dedicated volunteers. Their hard work and planning were key to the event's success, ensuring that everything ran smoothly and that participants had a memorable experience. The race was described by some as their favorite of the league, highlighting the positive impact of Mooney's efforts and the supportive atmosphere created by the volunteers.
In terms of performance, the results were impressive and showcased some of the league's top competitors. In the female category, Becky Quinn claimed the top spot, followed by Anna Michael in second and Clare Sullivan in third. On the men's side, Mark McAdden emerged victorious, with Garreth Davis securing second place and David Power finishing in third.
With the Church Mountain race now behind them, runners are gearing up for the league's final showdown next week. The finale at Trooperstown Hill will mark the end of a season that began back in April, and it promises to be a fitting conclusion to what has been a thrilling and well-contested series.
The Church Mountain race will undoubtedly remain a highlight for many, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated. As the Leinster League draws to a close, the memories of this challenging and rewarding race will continue to resonate with the runners who tackled it.
Featured Image: by Gavin Dooley