Clonakilty Waterfront Marathon celebrated its 10th year of running with record numbers and selling out 3 weeks before race date. The weather conditions were challenging with high winds and showery outbreaks of rain. By looking at the faces of runners and the atmosphere on both the start and finish lines you would think the Sun was shining. Yet again the unique atmosphere created by the Run Clon Crew was very evident this year.
This years race celebrated one of Ireland’s and the Worlds most talented female runners 50th birthday. Catherina Mckiernan who’s birthday fell on the same day as this years event made this event more special. It was meant to be….Participants got the opportunity to sing Happy Birthday to Catherina along with acknowledging her achievements on a World and European stage. This years medal also recognised Catherina’s life time running achievements along with the events strong message of Peace and Respect to each other.
Participants from not only Cork and Ireland attended. The USA, UK, Sweden, France, Spain and many more nations made the trip to Clonakilty in West Cork.
The winner of the 10k Niall McCarthy and the female winner was the birthday girl Catherina Mckiernan.
The Half Marathon was won by Sergui Ciobanu of Clonliffe Harriers. Sergui is coming off the back of a good season and great supporter of this event over the years. The Female winner was also a well known and popular lady on the road race scene, Angela McCann of Clonmel A.C.
The Marathon was also won by the current 2018 champion Freddy Stukk of Raheny Shamrock A.C.
The Winner of the Woman’s Marathon was Anne Curley of the great Donore Harriers AC in Dublin
Even in as far away place as Clonakilty, 2 local Dublin clubs of Clonliffe Harriers and Raheny Shamrock A.C. were battling for honors across all events.
Many of the past winners and participants of the event come back year on year showing
Well done again to the Clon Crew, participants and spectators for making this a highly successful event.
By Tomás Greally