Posted Date: 29-Apr-2009 Wednes

Helena Crossan recorded her second National 10k win in as many years when won the V2 masters section in Navan on Sunday last. The National record holder for the 100k finished with a season’s best of 38.16 for the County Meath course. Eilish Bell continued her recovery from her ultra-marathon exploits in Connanara last month with a very useful 46.23. James Browne confirmed his recent good form with a personal best of 36.28. Paddy Doherty was also in personal best form and was well pleased with his 37.06 clocking. Vinnie Hegarty finished strongly in 41.24, while Mickey Donaghy delivered another promising performance running 42.40.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday last, 10 athletes from Inishowen Athletics Club took part in the first race in the Furey Insurance 5k series. The event was held on the very popular Bay Road circuit, which this year incorporated the Northern Ireland 5k road championships. A record number of 130 runners took part. Karol Doherty followed his victory in the Omagh half marathon last month with another victory in the wheelchair section in a swift 17.03. Doherty has his sights now firmly set on the Belfast marathon on Monday 4th May. Paddy Doherty ran 17.49 with Finbarr Gallagher 4 seconds adrift on 17.53. Culdaff runner Martin Mooney completed the 3 ½ lap circuit in 18.43, while Shaun Mc Laughlin was just 14 seconds off his lifetime best running 19.18. Theresa Doherty continues to impress with good early season form, with a finishing time of 20.24. Peter Mc Kinney raced to 20.32, while Malin athlete Charlie Mc Laughlin opened his road season with 21.31. Seamus Mc Daid completed the City of Derry 5k event in 21.50. Susan McGrath wiped over 4 minutes of her personal best with a finishing time of 25.18.

Up-Coming Events

The Donegal Grand Prix begins this weekend with the Northwest 10km road race on Sunday 3rd May at 3 pm in Letterkenny. The Culdaff 5k and juvenile 1 mile road race will take place on Friday 15th May. The 1 mile begins at 7.30, and the 5k will get under way at 7.45. All levels of walkers, joggers and runners are welcome to take part. Registration is in the Wee Hall in Culdaff from 6.00 pm and there will be a presentation and refreshments afterwards. All finishers in both the races will get a goody bag. Proceeds from the race are going to Concern. Lisnagelvin is the venue for the second 5k in the Furey Insurance Series and takes place on Wednesday 6th May at 7.30 pm. Many of the Club’s juvenile athletes will be in action this Wednesday at the Donegal Schools’ track and field championships in Letterkenny.