RESULTS Matthew Bidwell who added another half-marathon victory to his name with a win in the Galway Bay Half Marathon on Saturday in a time of 1:13:41.
Nearly 1,800 people lined Galway Bay on Saturday to take part in the Elverys Sports Galway Bay Half Marathon and 10K. Despite the threat of rain and wind, the sun broke through and the breeze wafting in from the Atlantic was just strong enough to make this event a challenge. The route took in the ‘Causeway’, a half mile stretch right out into the bay with no shelter from the sea breezes: some called it refreshing, others found it tough – either way, the sense of achievement when each person crossed the finish line was evident as they swapped stories afterwards in the Marquee.
The winner of the Mens event in the Half Marathon was Mathew Bidwell from Galway City Harriers in a time of 1.13.41, with the leading woman, Veronica Colleran from Ennis Track Club, coming in at 1.26.42. The 10K winners were Sean Connnolly from Tallaght AC in an amazing 30 minutes 45 seconds and Rosemarie Masterson from Tullamore Harriers in 43 minutes.
Bernard Duffy, the Race Organiser, credited the Gardaí, the City Council and the hundred or so marshalls for the logistical excellence that allowed such a large event to go ahead in the middle of Galway on a busy Saturday afternoon with little disruption to local traffic and residents. ‘We worked with the authorities to find a route and a traffic management plan that kept the roads open and also allowed pedestrians to enjoy the promenade alongside the runners. It worked to perfection,’ said Bernard ‘and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make this such an enjoyable event.’
The event sponsors, Elverys Sports, the nationwide sports and leisure clothing store who have their roots firmly planted in the west of Ireland, were delighted with the event. ‘Of course it gives Elverys exposure but our involvement is also aimed at encouraging ordinary people to do extraordinary things. We had a team of over 90 Elverys Staff running to raise funds for the ISPCC. The finish line atmosphere was electric – the DJ and face painters kept the spectators and kids amused while the weary athletes crossed the line at the Claddagh. It was a great day out for the organisers, supporters and volunteers and if it encourages one person to take up running or walking then that’s a bonus,’ commented Loman Caulfield, Director of Elverys Sports.
The full results are available on www.galwaybayhalfmarathon.com
Thanks to the organisers, volunteers and participants.
See you next year !