Stars of Tipperary athletics take top honours in massive Comeragh mountains challenge

On July 20th, the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) held a Munster Championship race in the rugged beauty of the Comeragh Mountains with Clonmel  based athletes doing exceptionally well.

This marked the fourth race of the Munster Championship series which consists of six races at various locations around Munster.

READ MORE: Tipperary medieval walled town will celebrate its origins during National Heritage Week

As it was All-Ireland Final day extra spice was added to the friendly rivalry between the many Tipperary and Cork runners and volunteers.

On the day two Clonmel based participants came out top in the gruelling mountain challenge.
While the hurlers won so too did Kealey Tideswell and Sergiu Ciobanu to set off celebrations in Clonmel for the two athletes.

Almost 80 runners set out from Harney’s Cross on the 16-kilometre course which showcased the natural variety and challenge of the Comeraghs and brought with it all the excitement and camaraderie that trail running is known for. The runners wound their way through the Glenpatrick Bridge Loop Walk, Lough Mohra Loop Walk, the historic Slate Quarries at Poulovone, a scenic stretch along the Glasha River, passing through the archway of Boola Bridge and finishing near Raven’s Rock. With 550 metres of climbing, a fast descent, and a few surprise inclines towards the finish, this course had something for everyone—and left most runners with tired legs and big smiles.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature did not co-operate. A thick fog clung to Lough Mohra overnight and persistent wet conditions underfoot meant a quick switch from Plan A, to Plan B to Plan C, prioritising safety over views. The iconic glacial coum and the dramatic Knockanaffrin Ridge remained hidden, giving everyone the perfect reason to return next year.

Despite the weather, competition remained fierce and fun. Congratulations to Clonmel based Sergiu Ciobanu (Clonliffe Harriers) and Kealey Tideswell (Clonmel AC), who took top honours in the men’s and women’s races. Rounding out the men’s podium were Sean Quirke (Bilboa AC) and Nick Hogan from Clare. In the women’s race, sisters Kate and Breda McDonald (Ballyroan, Abbeyleix and District AC) were placed second and third.

Sarah Whelan, race director, and all the volunteers who braved the weather brought their trademark energy, enthusiasm and expertise to the event making the day safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Thank you to Martins Fruit and Veg, Fetch Coffee, The Cycologist Bike Shop and Glenpatrick Spring Water for the donations received and to Powers the Pot Camping, Raven’s Rock Glamping and to the local residents for their support.

READ NEXT: Community Policing Vehicle paid a welcome visit to a Sports For All camp in Tipperary

Since hosting the World Masters Mountain Running Championships three years ago, Clonmel has truly established itself as a hub for trail and mountain running. With regular training on local trails and more races popping up on the IMRA calendar for the region, there’s never been a better time to get involved. IMRA races are structured to suit all ages and abilities from juniors under 16 to seniors over 80, from under 10K to ultramarathon distances, and from a few hundred metres of ascent to the lofty heights of Galtymore and Carrantuohill.

If this has sparked your interest, visit imra.ie to find upcoming events and discover the joy of trail running and the warm, welcoming community behind it.