The past two weeks in athletics for Drogheda and District AC have been remarkably quiet, but the anticipation and excitement reached a crescendo with the culmination of months of planning for the Waterwipes Drogheda Christmas 5K.
Taking place on a sunny Sunday morning, the day was mild, the fear of frosty roads had passed and the apprehension was on for a day of outstanding running. The race attracted over 650 participants, with elite runners from far and wide adding to the competitive spirit marking a historic high for the event which has a reputation as a flat PB course.
The Waterwipes Drogheda Christmas 5K kicked off with a lap of the Lourdes Stadium track, followed by a route passing through Boyle O’Reilly Terrace and up the Ballymakenny Road, offering a fast downhill stretch and toward Listoke House. The race then made a 180-degree turn, leading back to the stadium for a triumphant finish on the track.
Cathal Doyle of Clonliffe Harriers AC stole the show, setting a course record with an impressive time of 14:16. Cathal took an early lead, securing a nearly 30-second advantage over Mitchell Byrne of Rathfarnham AC, who finished in 14:43, alongside Kieran Kelly of Raheny Shamrock AC, the former course record holder and two-time winner, also clocking in at 14:43.
Among the women, Carla Sweeney of Rathfarnham AC claimed victory in 17 minutes flat, closely followed by Catherine O’Connor of East Down AC in 17:11 and Becky Woods in 17:21.
DDAC fielded a strong presence with 55 participants. Christopher Keenan led the charge, finishing fifth overall with a time of 15:32, followed by Rodney Thornton in 16:31 and Brian Martin in 16:38. Yasmin Canning, who had dedicated countless hours to the race organising committee, emerged as the first DDAC lady home with a commendable time of 20:13. Mary Kinsella and Aine Caroll followed closely with times of 23:11 and 23:14, respectively.
Noteworthy performances from DDAC also included Johnny Breen in 17:18, Kieran McGrath in 17:46, Michael Walker in 20:54, Jennifer Gregory in 23:54, Nuala Reilly in 24:27, Sinead McGuinness in 29 minutes flat, Siobhan Johnston in 31:24, and Tony Hartwick in 37:57.
The race committee wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to all DDAC volunteers and participating athletics clubs, acknowledging their crucial role in making the event a resounding success year after year. Their unwavering support and commitment continue to contribute to the festive spirit that has become synonymous with the Waterwipes Drogheda Christmas 5K.
Earlier in the week on Wednesday evening under the lights of the National Indoor Arena, the Track & Field Live – Meet 3 unfolded with a lineup of impressive performances and noteworthy times.
The Juvenile Results showcased the emerging talents, with Hannah Cunningham dominating the U11-U12 600m Girls in 2:10.37 and blazing through the U11-U12 60m in 9.97 seconds. In the U13-U14 category, Bonnie Breach marked her territory with a swift 9.61 in the 60m Sprint Girls, while Beatrice Cunningham snagged a 3rd place finish at 9.81.
Emily Rose McDermott added her speed, completing the 60m in 9.91 seconds. The U13-U14 800m Girls heats were equally competitive, with Beatrice Cunningham covering the distance in 2:50.85 and Bonnie Breach clocking in at 3:00.32.
In the U15-U16 category, Ruby Berrill and Lily Fitzharris threw down impressive times of 8.94 and 8.95 in the 60m Sprint Girls, revealing the depth of emerging talent. Aine Carroll dominated the U15-U16 800m Girls with a solid time of 2:49.91, adding to the evening’s showcase of youthful prowess.
Turning to the Senior Results, the 400m Men heats saw Cormac Russell snagging a commendable 3rd place in Heat 1 at 1:05.84, while Gerry O’Connor secured 2nd place in Heat 2 with a swift time of 1:02.20. The Mens Mile took the spotlight, with Christopher Keenan’s impressive time of 4:24.51 earning him a well-deserved 1st place – a standout moment in the evening.
Amid the hustle, Niamh Carroll showcased her prowess in the 400m Women, finishing in 1:17.76. Andrea McCabe exhibited endurance in the 800m Women, completing the distance in 3:06.46. The evening was more than just a competition; it was a gritty display of athleticism, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of personal bests.
