The Catherine Duggan Open Sports, hosted by Bandon AC last Sunday, proved to be a resounding success, drawing athletes and spectators to a day filled with exciting competitions and heartfelt celebrations. The event was particularly special this year as it featured presentations to three of the club’s most distinguished athletes who have represented Ireland at the Olympic Games.
The club honoured Breeda Dennehy Willis, an Olympian from Sydney 2000; Phil Healy, who has competed in both Tokyo and Paris; and Nicola Tuthill, a recent competitor at the Paris Olympics. These presentations served as a testament to the rich athletic legacy that Bandon AC continues to foster.
In addition to the club's celebrations, Cork Board members were in attendance to honour Phil Healy for her remarkable performance at the recent Olympics, where she was a key member of the Irish 4x400m women’s relay team that achieved an impressive 4th place finish in the final.
One of the highlights of the day was the Men’s Mile race, where Shane Byrne of Togher AC successfully defended his title, securing the Bob Hales Memorial Cup. Juliet Biggs claimed victory in the 800m, earning her the prestigious Catherine Duggan Memorial Cup, a fitting tribute at the event named in Duggan's honour. In the 5k race, Kevin Wilmot emerged as the winner, taking home the Donough Coughlan 5k Memorial Cup after a strong performance.
Looking ahead, Bandon AC told Run Republic that they are excited about the prospect of hosting next year’s event on their new track, which they hope to have completed by this time next year. The upgraded facilities promise to enhance the experience for athletes, continuing the tradition of excellence that the Catherine Duggan Open Sports embodied on Sunday.
Featured Image: Courtesy of Bandon AC