National 5k 2024 (18th May)

The National 5k was held in the picturesque Phoenix Park on Saturday morning 18th May in calm and dry conditions with close to 1,700 finishers. This race is the first instalment of the Athletics Ireland 2024 race series. Leading the Mullingar Harriers home through the demanding course was Andrew Nevin with a fine nineteenth place finish in 15 minutes 41 seconds. Next to finish was Gerard Gavin with a strong run in 17:30 followed by Eddie Newman (17:50) winning a National bronze medal in his master category, then Pauric Brady (18:42), with James Cribbin close behind (18:55). Battling hard for the women’s team was Mary Stuart leading them home in 20 minutes 10 seconds, earning her a silver medal in her master category and close behind her was a determined Criona Reid (20.31) delighted to take the bronze medal for third in her master category. Also running well was Padraig Beglin (20.48), Linda Cunningham (21.58), Brigid McCabe (23.09) sticking to her pre-race plan and winning the National title and gold medal in her master category, and Aidan O’Donoghue (24:59) completed the Mullingar squad. The Master Women o/50 team of Mary, Criona and Brigid finished 2nd Club, adding to the medal tally for the day. Well done to our athletes who all gave their very best in a very successful National race [LC].