Connemara International Marathon 2006

On the weekend of the 25th/26 March 2006 two members of Pegasus AC travelled to County Galway for a weekend of challenging distance running in the Connemara International Marathon. With weather conditions at best being described as terrible, with driving rain and howling winds and a course with several long hill climbs including a two mile climb close to the finish, this was going to be a tough race, but both Chris Denton and Harry Reilly were determined to enjoy this well organised event.

Things kicked off on the Saturday with 10 people taking part in an invitational run of the marathon who would also be running the race the next day as well. Harry was one of these brave souls and completed the course in 4hrs 50mins tired but happy to have one run out of the way.

After a good nights rest all the runners converged at Mamm Cross for the three race disciplines on Sunday morning. Chris was running in the full marathon of 26.2 miles while Harry was opting for the ultra marathon of 39.3 miles!

The weather conditions made things difficult for the runners with many tiring and dropping out. In the marathon Martin Halvery ran a well-paced run to finish in a time of 2.57.16 with Wolfgang Herety coming home in 2nd in 3.02.10. Chris ran a strong race to cross the line in 3.04.11, which was good enough for 5th place and 1st UK finisher, a great result and one he hopes to improve on next year.

In the Ultra marathon Harry who had already ran a marathon the previous day ran a steady race and finished in an excellent time of 7.13.52 beating many athletes who were competing on fresher legs.

Noel Adair who travelled with the Pegasus lads ran in the half marathon and finished 151st out of 1209 finishers in a time of 1.45.23.

Once again a superbly organised race ensured everyone enjoyed the event and the refreshments at the end were much appreciated, I’m sure most people will be back next year.

On a sadder note, on behalf of everyone at Pegasus AC I would like to pass on our condolences to the family and friends of Frank Haines, aged only 31 Frank travelled over to the race from his home in London but two miles from the finish at the top of the long hill climb he collapsed and despite instant medical assistance from doctors and the red cross they were unable to save him and he died. Our thoughts are with you.

If you are interested in running or just want to get fitter why not come along and meet us at Pegasus, info on the club can be found at www.pegasusac.org.uk including news of our ladies only sessions, ideal for beginners, or you can phone the club secretary on 70355545.