River Moy 1/2 Marathon, Ballina, Co.Mayo 12th May 2012 The sun shone brightly on Ballina for the River Moy Half Marathon held in the North Mayo capital on Saturday. On a perfect day for running, many personal bests were set on a flat and scenic course which is never too far away from the salmon rich river which lends its name to the race. This is a race which has justifiably gained a reputation for catering for the athletic targets of all participants and this year was no different with the presence of race pacers for 1:30; 1:40; 1:50; 2:00 and 2:10. This was much appreciated by many runners as pacing in a half marathon is crucial.
Local athlete Michael Canty emerged victorious on the day in a time of 1:14:59, making his drive for home as he strode into the canopy of Belleek Woods with Irish international ultra-runner John Byrne, representing Mayo AC. This win is Michael’s biggest win to date and truly represents the fantastic athletic journey he has undertaken in the past three years having joined Ballina AC through the Fit4life programme. The highly efficient Ballina AC athlete bade his time behind the early leaders of Byrne and eventual third placed Ian Egan. However, he was determined that his drive for home was going to be a decisive one and he tore through the Belleek Woods section of the race like a man possessed. Only a few weeks ago, John Byrne represented Ireland in European and World 100km race in Italy and finished in 33rd place.
Thomas Kelly from North Sligo AC was fourth and Ballina native John Courell was fifth. Maurice Looby was sixth and Gerry Duffy, the motivational Mullingar athlete of ’32 marathons in 32 days’ fame was seventh. Gerry is a regular visitor to Ballina and was a great presence in this race.
The female race was won by Dublin based doctor Dervila Holmes representing Donore City Harriers who made the trip west to her native Mayo to secure victory in 1:29:30. Running steadily throughout, Dervila equalled her personal best for the half marathon and is enjoying a very successful season so far. In second place in the female section was Sarah Syron, Mayo AC followed by local runner Rachel Nolan in third place.