Runners raced around the rugged beauty of mountains
Event was part of the Coillte Summer/Autumn Trail League
The Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) held a race in the rugged beauty of the Comeragh Mountains last month.
This race was part of the Coillte Summer/Autumn Trail League, which comprises races at various locations around Munster. This was the second time the race has been held in the shadow of the Knockanaffrin Ridge.
Mother Nature cooperated this year, allowing the runners to enjoy some of the most beautiful views in this part of County Waterford. Lough Mohra, the iconic glacial coum, made her presence felt and the dramatic Knockanaffrin Ridge above called runners and volunteers alike to return, perhaps, at a future date to explore this area at a more leisurely pace.
Around 100 runners set out from Harney’s Cross on the 15.5 kilometres course, which showcased the natural variety and challenge of the Comeraghs and brought with it all the excitement and camaraderie for which trail running is known. 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 450 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.
This year there was also a short course race of 4k for newcomers to trail running and for younger enthusiasts. Their course consisted of sections of fire road and wooded trails.
The competition was fast, fierce and fun. Congratulations to local star Kealey Tideswell (Clonmel AC) and Barry Harnett (Dundrum AC), who took top honours in the women’s and men’s races. Rounding out the men’s podium were Marcus Bishop (Kildare) and Nick Hogan (Cork). In the women’s race, Angela Tobin (West Waterford AC) and Ide Kelleher (Mallow AC) were placed second and third.
Sarah Whelan, race director, and all the volunteers who were relieved that the sun was shining, brought their trademark energy, enthusiasm and expertise to the event, making the day enjoyable and memorable.
Sarah Gough, Mikeeven Fine Foods (Sara’s Honey Range), daughter of famous masters’ athlete Joe Gough, donated hampers of honey to the prize winners. The Cycologist Bike Shop also contributed prizes. Additional donations received were also much appreciated. Support from Powers the Pot Camping, Raven’s Rock Glamping and the local residents all contributed to the smooth running of the event.
Since hosting the World Masters Mountain Running Championships four 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 reading this account 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.
The Tipperary Sports Partnership, in conjunction with Clonmel AC and other experienced trail runners in the county, are holding a Clonmel Trail Running Programme that started on April 29 and continues for six weeks in the area around Carey’s Castle from 6.30-7-30pm, meeting at the carpark.
For registration and details visit www.tipperarysports.ie or call 052-616 6201. This initiative will provide an opportunity for newcomers and those who want to gain more technical skill to come along and sample the joys and challenges of trail running.