Over 250 hardy souls toed the line at the popular Maurice Mullins IMRA 50k on Saturday March 23rd. This years event was ramped up in difficulty with the addition of a double climb and descent over Djouce and Maulin mountains. This coupled with some extremely challenging sleet, snow and wind led for a tough day on the Wicklow hills.
The early starters set off at 8.30am eager to get going on what was for many their first attempt at an Ultra distance. at 9.40am the remainder were let loose, myself included, much to their delight to get the blood flowing.
Having completed the 2020 edition where the course skirted around Djouce and bypassed Maulin, I knew today would be a lot tougher. Luckily this was a universal feeling even among those at the front of the pack.
The Men's race was won by Barry McEvoy in a time of 4:33:00 who continued his impressive form following his Wicklow Way Half win just two weeks previously. Second went to Edward O'Connor who crossed the line just over five minutes later in 4:38:12 while Enda Cloake took third in 4:41:12.
Emma Stuart claimed the win in the Women's race in a time of 5:05:12. This was Emma's first IMRA race and came off the back of her third place podium finish at Transgrancanaria last month. Second went to Sorcha Loughnane in a time of 5:23:11 while Laura O'Driscoll took third place in 5:36:07.
All eyes will be on the above as they get the chance to wear the Irish vest following this years Maurice Mullins 50k being selected as a qualifier for the European Athletics Off-road running Championships in Annecy, France on May 31st - June 2nd.