British & Irish Junior Mountain Running Championships 2022 (3rd Sept)

Andrew Glennon and Matthew Glennon, successfully tried out the Glendalough Mountain Running Race on 23rd July and shocked the traditional enthusiasts with Andrew finishing an excellent 7th overall, but having to yield to his older brother Matthew, who finished 2nd in this gruelling test of strength and stamina. On finishing, Matthew was surprised to learn that the race was actually a trial and his podium placing automatically earned him selection for the Irish Mountain Runing Association (IMRA) team for the 2022 British & Irish Junior Mountain Running Championships in Cumbria, England. So, on Saturday morning 3rd September he took on the best of the Fell Runners of these islands and moved up a gear in every sense of the word. The 5.7km Cumbria course was a stiff test, taking the runners up the mountain side, climbing 300m in the process, and then descending at breakneck speed back to the start/finish line, all in challenging underfoot conditions with plenty of rough ground, rocks and brambles. Boosted by his excellent Leaving Certificate results the day before, Matthew fought hard and was rewarded for his efforts by finishing 1st Irish athlete home in the Junior International. Well done Matthew. Training on the hills of Belvedere has definitely paid off dividends for young Matthew.