St. Finbarr’s Half Marathon 9th September, 2012

Congratulations to all who took part in today’s very successful Half Marathon in Blarney. In very warm conditions and into a headwind on the way back there were some great performances produced in a race completed by over 500 runners.

Emma Murphy won the ladies race with a brilliant performance, coming home in 1.22.08. In doing so Emma led the St. Finbarr’s ladies team to victory with Mary Sweeney (4th) completing the team. Geraldine O Shea was 5th. Esther Murphy and Niamh Cronin were 1st and 2nd F35, Col Conway and Anne Wolfe were 1st and 2nd F40, Orla Crosbie was 3rd F45 and Ann Donnelly was 1st F50.

In the mens race which was won by Michael Herlihy of North Cork AC with an excellent race in 1.10.44, John Meade led the St. Finbarr’s mens team to victory with a fine 4th place finish just a week after his Dingle Half Marathon victory. Cathal O Connell (1st M45) who was 5th and Michael Morgan who was 8th completed the team. Michael Murphy and Willie Hayes were 2nd and 3rd M55.

Well done to everyone who made the race such a success. That goes for participants but even more importantly to all who helped with the organisation on and off the course. The pacing, stewarding, water and post race refreshments were first rate and the timing chips worked very well so thanks and well done to all concerned. Thanks and well done also to Race Director Ken Devine who worked tirelessly to pull everything together and did a great job  in organising the race.

Final thanks to our sponsors John Buckley Sports who included a leaflet giving 20% discount for all participants in the goody bag. John is a great supporter of the club and indeed of athletics generally in Cork.

Full Results Here