Ardgillan Race Ignites IMRA Leinster Trail League 2024 with Thrilling Start

The IMRA Leinster Trail League 2024 began with a bang as runners descended upon Ardgillan for an exhilarating race on Wednesday, May 8th. Under perfect weather conditions, the race kicked off at 7:30 pm, setting the stage for a challenging yet scenic competition. Spanning a distance of approximately 9km and boasting a 190m elevation gain, the course tested the mettle of participants with steady climbs that pushed them to the limit.

Race Director Greg Robins and his dedicated team of volunteers were lauded for their invaluable contributions to the event's success. Their meticulous planning and execution ensured a seamless experience for runners, highlighting the trademark warmth and camaraderie that defines IMRA races.

This year, the Ardgillan course witnessed a few changes, enhancing the overall experience and garnering praise from the IMRA community. These adjustments not only added to the challenge but also amplified the race's allure, creating an electrifying atmosphere throughout the evening.

In the long course, the competition was fierce as runners vied for top honors. The female category saw Sinead Farrell clinching the first position, followed by Harriette Robinson in second place and Patricia McLoughlin in third. On the male side, Daniel O'Brien secured the top spot, with Ronan Murphy and Alasdair Brown claiming second and third places, respectively.

Meanwhile, in the short course, female runners showcased their prowess with Aoibheann O'Malley seizing the first position. She was closely followed by Annabel Zheng in second place and Kate Jones in third. Among the male participants, Myles Hawkshaw emerged victorious, trailed by Finn McGurren in second place and James Smith in third.

The Ardgillan race not only set a high standard for the Leinster Trail League but also provided a thrilling start to this year's series. Runners praised the challenging yet rewarding course, emphasising the sense of accomplishment fostered by IMRA events.

Looking ahead, the excitement continues to build as the Wobbly Bridge Rathdrum takes centre stage on June 19th in the Leinster Trail League.

Featured Image: by John Shiels