from Padraig Marrey Geraghty storms to victory in perfect conditions, only hours before the start Gaelforce winds looked like they were going to stop the inaugural run/bike/ run event but in real West of Ireland style the weather gods came good with a lovely sunny morning greeting all the participants.
Jim Ryan All Ireland sports and recreational volunteer of the year started the 160 competitors of on their maiden run in Claremorris ‘s Land of the Giants Duathlon.
Stage one was led by young James Ryan from Castlebar with John Greaney second and Galway man Ruaidhri Geraghty third.
Out on the Bike Geraghty put on the after burners and caught the two ahead to come back into T1 with only 2k to go with a sizable lead, by the Finish he had won in a staggering time of 56.43 minutes, over 2 minutes clear of fellow Galway man John Greaney with Castlebar man James Ryan in third with 59.27.
In the Ladies race Partry woman Kathleen Barry won in a time of 1.11.33, a minute to spare on Claremorris native Paula Prendergast 1.12.40 with Ballinrobe’s Cathy Mellett third in 1.14.46.
In a tight race for the mens over 40 prize, seasoned Westport campaigner Noel Brady showed he still has the fighting spirit finishing 4th overall in a time of 1:00:36 with Jimmy Lawlor 2nd at 1minute.
In the Ladies over 40 Ann Ronayne Irishtown had a fine win with a good time of 1:16:17.
The mens junior prize was won by Galway athlete Dylan Mc Glynn and Crossmolina lady Grace Shannon won the junior ladies in 1.28.25.
The next event in Duathlon takes place on February 16th in Ballinrobe.
Organisers would like to thank all the marshals and drivers especially the Claremorris men’s shed group, Claremorris Chamber of commerce, Mc Mahon park committee, DJ Michael Burke, Tom Byrne Tidy towns, The Red Cross, The Gardai, Mayo Co Co, Western Lakes CC and Red Tag timing.
The event was sponsored by Flynn’s Pharmacy, the Dalton Inn, Claremorris Swimming pool and Mayo road safety.
Full results attached.