Daingean 5k 2024 (14th June)

Round 6 of the Offaly 5k Series, the Daingean 5k, was held on Friday evening 14th June. A very large field of 364 athletes competed in the event. Organised and excellently staged by the local Naomh Mhuire AC, it attracted a huge contingent from the other Offaly clubs, who have been magnificent in each of their respective towns and villages putting on a well stewarded even. Mullingar Harriers were very well represented with 23 taking part.

On a perfect evening for running, bright sunshine and a stiff breeze were the conditions on a looped course that ran parallel to the canal and intersected the main street before moving through a series of country roads to the finish just off the main street. Kevin Moore was always mixing it with the leaders before having to settle for a close fourth place in a season’s best of 15 minutes 52 second. With support from Eoin Clarke (17:34), Evan McCormack (18:07) and Eddie Newman (18:09), winning his master category comfortably, the team placed 3rd Club.

Our women went even better by capturing the 1st Club place, thanks to Glenda Shaw running 18 minutes 30 seconds to finish 3rd woman and 1st in her master category, Joan Flynn (18:54) 3rd in her master category, Ann Hall (19:01) 4th in her master category, and Mary Stuart (19:53) winning her master category, combining to comfortably head the women team placings.

Others to complete the 5k were Dara O’Shea (19:16), Mark Geoghegan (19:30), Padraig Beglin (19:52), Orlaith Flanagan (20:24), Conleth Mullen (22:33) second u/20 man, Gemma Kelly (22:29), Michael O’Sullivan (23:23), Brigid McCabe (23:29) second in her master category, Claire Lennon (23:39), Catherine Gavin (23:41), Joel Kelly (24:07) second u/15 boy, Martin Mullen (24:14), Michael Purdue (24:19), Ray Smyth (24:24) and Kelly Dunne (24:54) [MO’S].