On the last Monday in October the Dublin Marathon has become a traditional outing for East Down runners, some first timers, some many timers and some old timers but heroes every one.

MICK THE MIGHTY

Leading the contingent this year, as last, was Michael Cultra 3.19.10 perhaps hoping for better but then running an “easy” cross country 2 days beforehand may not have been ideal preparation. Next man home and the first of the first timers was Andrew Telford 3.24.55 with Mark O’Connor just behind in 3.27.15. But then came the inspirational figure of Mick McCreesh looking and indeed feeling strong at 25 miles as his high five knocked me back. This man has achieved incredible results in the past 2 years but this one must be the sweetest of all, cutting holes in the predicted times as he marches towards the 3 hour barrier – a pipe dream? Well don’t bet against it. The magic formula? Early mornings and sheer hard work. Take a bow Mick and a well deserved rest!!

Then another first timer Gareth Kelly showed his liking for the distance with a very positive 3.46 and a little further back came ultra trainee Phillip Vint, using the flat surfaces to prepare for the Tollymore Trail Ultra Marathon on 15 November, though I doubt if there will be too many flats to complain about there! Michael McKeown showing his usual indomitable spirit made his way serenely to the finish in spite of injuries and is an excellent example of mind over matter.

CARA IS LEADING LADY

If Mick stole the honours for the men then Cara Cuningham did likewise for the Women, clocking an incredible 4.01 in her first marathon and looking like she could go round again. Of course her Mum Linda was doing her own thing a little further back while Dad Mickey was making sure he kept an eye on his girls and making it a family day out. Cathy Burke had every reason to be pleased with her time after spending a worrying few weeks nursing an injury while Liz O’Hagan 4.26 and Oonagh Breteche 4.30 got the job done quietly and efficiently.

Simon McGrattan was again beset by cramps , not surprising when you consider the miles he has been clocking recently, though falling into bad company on the eve of the race may have been a contributory factor. Gary Cull made a brave first attempt too, and managed to raise a smile for the camera at the finish line, always a good sign.

CROSS COUNTRY LEAGUE

Given this level of effort on Monday it was perhaps not surprising that the Club was unable to field a team in the Cross Country League fixture in Coleraine on Saturday. Only 2 made the trip, Michael Cultra and Paul Burns, finishing 41^st and 78^th respectively in a field of almost 150, though the former’s presence gives the lie to the Dublin excuse. This weekend the League fixture is in Sixmilewater Park Ballyclare and as this venue is only just round the corner by comparison, a large turnout of both men and women in the East Down colours is expected.

 INTERNATIONAL HONOURS

The Club congratulates Barrie Atkinson and Liam Keenan who two weeks ago qualified in the Over 35 and Over 50 categories respectively, for the NI squad for the British Master’s Championships to be held later this month in Nottingham. Our best wishes go with them.

GRIDDLE 10K

All eyes are on 16 November when local interest will focus on the Round the Griddle 10K and Fun Run which gets under way at 12 noon from Saul GAC premises. Online entry is open at www.athleticsni.org and entries will also be taken on the day.

Joe Quinn

3 November 2014