Westmeath Schools XC 2022 (28th Sept)

Westmeath Schools Cross Country back in full swing!

Even though the Westmeath Schools Cross Country was held last year, due to the many Covid restrictions in place at the time, the numbers taking part were understandably well down on normal. In stark contrast this year though, on Wednesday 28th September things returned to normal with a bang and on a lovely cool but dry morning, school children from the four corners of Westmeath descended on Belvedere in huge numbers, including a big number from schools taking part for the first time.

The grass was freshly cut and the grounds in Belvedere looked beautiful and underfoot conditions were great for running. The hard work put in by volunteers from the Club in setting up the course meant that everything was ready on the day. We are indebted to the many volunteers, members and friends of Mullingar Harriers, who turned up on the morning to help officiate and make the day a success. It was great to see the enthusiasm in the competitors from the youngest first class pupil to the older secondary school students, cheered on by a large number of teachers and parents. The event remains very popular and the feedback from teachers and parents was very positive, so we look forward to continued support in future years.

Sincere thanks to the Westmeath Civil Defence who attended to look after any first aid needs with their customary professionalism. The Management and Staff at Belvedere House & Gardens were also of great help in organising the day at a venue that is absolutely ideal for hosting such an event and the grounds came in for particular praise from everyone that attended. Finally, our thanks to the teachers and schools for competing and ensuring that the event continues to be one of the most eagerly awaited sporting events on the calendar for those of school going age in Westmeath.

The Primary school top 20 individual finishers and team scores and the Secondary schools top 10 individual finishers are available HERE. Congratulations to all who took part and as usual, the standard of competition was extremely high and medals were hard won for all the competitors. Team medals will be distributed to the schools this week or next.