2014 Membership

Registration Forms for 2014 are now available to download here:

• Juvenile Registration Form
  
• Senior Registration Form

We will be having our annual 2 mile club run in Hazelwood on St Stephens day at 12 where memberships will be taken for the new year. Id like to thank you all for your support in 2013 and look forward to seeing you all in 2014. Wishing you all Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Seamus Somers
Club Chairman

Well done Cathal!

Cathal Corcoran made a brave effort to take gold in the National under 13 Cross Country in Waterford on Sunday. He eventually finished third which is a great achievement as this is only his fourth serious race this Season.

Cathal is a product of the John Hughes inspired Geevagh National School team and gave the School its first Connacht medal this year by finishing third in this years event.

Gold in the Connacht under 13 qualifiers showed steady improvement and this National medal is the icing on the cake. Cathal also led Connacht to silver in the team event.

In the girls under 13 Ailbhe Morgan ran brilliantly to finish 54th in a field of over 150 and as 7th scorer for Connacht just missed a team silver but is showing great promise for the future.

At under 19 Orla Mulvihill had her best ever National performance and will do well in the Indoor Season

National Novice Cross Country

There were good performances from Sligo Clubs in the older age groups and Novice Men and Women Cross Country in Waterford on Sunday. David Harper 7th and James Mc Geough 30th competed at under 19 Boys with Orla Mulvihill well up at under 19 Girls. Sarah Doohan of South Sligo made top twenty in the Novice Women and North Sligo had a large entry in both Novice Men and Women, with Fintan Whelan the sole Sligo AC entry in the Mens race.

Christmas Racers

Well done today to Alan Kearins who finished 2nd overall in the Belleek Castle 10k in Ballina and to Richard Gorman who also finished 2nd in the Carrick AC 5mile Christmas run.

Also well done to Seamus Somers, Jonathan Hill, Damien Kennedy, and Roy Kelly who finished 4th 5th 6th and 7th in Carrick to take the team prize.

Clontarf joy for club

by club PRO Paul Deering 

Seamus Somers and Lucy Brennan carried their excellent Dublin City Marathon form into another race in the capital, this time the Clontarf half marathon on Saturday morning last.

Seamus was an excellent second home in 1.17.05 while Lucy was second female over the line in 1.27.09.

Crisp, cold conditions with no wind made for good running conditions for the 1,000 plus field on a course that takes in the beach. One of the club's newest members, Wojciech Terlecki was the second male Sligo AC runner home in 1.26.20 with Neal Higgins third in 1.29.24. Ciaran Donnellan was Sligo AC's fourth male home in 1.45.16 while Conor McCarthy was next setting a new pb of 1.56.17.

Second female home for the club was Conor's wife, Cathy who posted 1.48.13, another great effort from one of the club's Dublin marathoners of a month ago. She was followed closely by Noelle Galvan in 1.48.33 who was making her debut over the distance. Another debutant with an excellent run was Karen Somers who finished in 2.04.45.

In the five mile event run in conjunction with the half marathon, Pauline Henry was 55th overall in 39.00 with Carmel Mullaney in 44.01 and Ciara Donnellan in 48.31.

Inter County Cross Country Championships

Sligo AC struck gold at the Inter County Cross Championships in Santry, Dublin today.

The club's men's B team won the title in fine style. The team, made up of Emmett Dunleavy, Dermot McDermott, Tommy Casey, Killian O'Connor, Richard Gorman, Seamus Somers and Michael O'Connell were also fifth overall.

Dublin Marathon 2013 Report

By Sligo AC PRO Paul Deering

Marathon post mortems and sore legs are the order of the day this week but one thing is certain, Sligo AC can look back proudly on its efforts on Bank Holiday Monday in Dublin.

There were plenty of personal bests and some excellent debut marathons with national category wins as well.

Blustery conditions made for a tricky, challenging day for the 34th annual running of the marathon but at least the rain held off having been serious concerns about a possible storm in the days leading up to the event.

The first three men home for the club were Seamus Somers in 2.48 followed by Damien Kennedy in 2.58 and Mel Casserly in 3.01, a brilliant effort by all three.

Lucy Brennan led Sligo's first three women home in 2.58 followed by Deirdre Deering in 3.41 and Cathy McCarthy in 3.42, the latter completing their second marathons.

The result placed the team an excellent sixth in the national marathon masters womens' category.

Lucy finished in the top ten overall women and she was also national over 50 winner. Congratulations are also extended to Enda Whelan, national over 60 champion who came home in 3.25. He was pushed all the way by another Sligo AC athlete, Ray Flynn who clocked 3.27, who was fourth. Well done too to Olivia Seery who was national over 65 champion, completing the course in 5.06. Rose Young was fourth in the over 60 national category.

Photo courtesy of Michael O'Connell - more great photos can be found here.

Cross Country Report Connacht Even Ages and Seniors

Richard Gorman's second place in the Senior Connacht Cross Country was the highlight of a good day for Sligo AC as was the silver medal for the under 18 boys team of James Lynch, Oisin Harney, Thomas Delahunt, and Declan Martin. The mens team of Richard Gorman, David Kearins, Kevin Mc Gloin, Tom Meehan, and Rory Connor were well up in the League Event.

Unfortunately the missing Athletes far outweighed those present.

In the girls under 12, three athletes from an entry of of 8 turned up and Maedh Mooney was first to finish in the top ten, a situation replicated in the boys race where Michael Morgan was first home.

The girls under 14 took bronze with Ailbhe Morgan and Aoife Morris leading the team home.

The Boys under 14 took silver led by Cathal Corcoran and Leo Doherty.

The Girls under 16, missing their best Athlete still managed to finish second while the Senior Ladies did well with Mari Johnston just ahead of Trish Foy and Cindy Mc Carthy.

County Sligo Cross Country 2013

COUNTY SLIGO CROSS COUNTRY 2013

SLIGO RACECOURSE SUNDAY 20th OCTOBER 2013 @ 1.00pm

• U10 Girls (must be born 2004) 800m
• U10 Boys (must be born 2004) 800m
• U11 Girls 1500m
• U11 Boys 1500m
• U12 Girls 2000m
• U12 Boys 2000m
• U13 Girls 2500m
• U13 Boys 2500m
• U15 Girls 3500m
• U15 Boys 3500m
• U17 Girls 4000m
• U17 Boys 5000m
• U19 Girls 4000m
• U19 Boys 6000m

Registration is €3 per athlete and is payable on the day.

Registration opens at 12.00 noon.

Medals to 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each event.

Sligo Road Race League Awards

The various winners of the Filan Centra and Sligo Credit Union County Sligo Road Race League were presented with their prizes at IT Sligo on Saturday.

Sligo AC extends its best wishes to men's winner Liam Feely of North Leitrim and women's winner, Mari Johnston.

Full results for the league are here: Ladies - Mens

Collooney 5K Results

On Sunday last, Richard Gorman, was in club colours once more, winning the Collooney 5k in a new pb with Seamus Somers also achieving a new best over the distance. Cindy McCarthy was first woman home.

 Full results can be found here.

Cross Country League

Sligo AC's master men's team put in a top class performance to get the new cross country league format off to the perfect start for the club.

Richard Gorman, in his first cross country run for the club was second with Michael O'Connell fourth.

Tom Meehan, back after injury, David Kearins and Rory Connor also finished well up the field.

Connacht Primary Schools XC & Walks 2013

Some younger members of the club competed at the Connacht Schools Primary Cross Country in County Longford on Saturday last. Racewalker Roisin Clarke followed up her gold medal winning performance at the County Sligo event in Calry with another win.

Eva Delahunt was also in the racewalking event and did very well.

Runner Ross Doherty, winner of the junior boys event in Sligo was an excellent fifth in Longford while Robin Kennedy, another gold winner in Sligo put in a strong performance when finishing seventh in the senior girls event.

Caoimhe Connor and Amy Deering also put in excellent runs, finishing well up the large field in the junior girls race in the Connacht finals.

Results can be found here.

IT Sligo 5K

The road race season is drawing to a close and on Saturday last one of the more popular 5k runs was held at IT Sligo.

Sligo AC's David Harper made a welcome return from illness to record a resounding win and a new course record (15:15), with Patricia Timpson (pictured), also of Sligo AC, first woman home in a new PB (18:48).

There were also other PBs on the day with a good showing too from the club's juvenile athletes. In particular, Oisin Harney, Thomas Delahunt, Philip Hunter, Leo Doherty, Jack Cawley and Keenan Deering all performed strongly and should ensure the club has a bright future.

Full results can be found here.

Grange 10K

The final race in the County Sligo Road Race League saw yet another exciting tussle for first between North Leitrim's AC Liam Feely and Sligo AC's Richard Gorman. Feely triumphed by the narrowest of margins, one second to claim victory in 32.57. Patrick Brennan was third in 33.56 with Sligo AC's Seamus Somers fourth in 34.57. Sligo AC's Lucy Brennan turned back the clock to be first female home, securing her fifth win in the event, the last being in 2005. Second woman across the line was League winner Marie Johnston who was followed in third by Sligo AC colleague, Patricia Foy. The unseasonably warm weather meant testing conditions for the 130 strong field. Sligo AC claimed the honours in the team events. Richard Gorman led home the men in first place with Seamus Somers, Ultan McNasser and Danny Hannon. Lucy Brennan led home the Sligo AC women's team to victory with Marie Johnston, Patricia Foy and Deirdre Deering. Conal Sexton, Ross Downey, Michael Casey and Nicky Davey claimed 3rd in the team event for Sligo AC and Catherine Bradley, Ashling Cawley, Cathy McCarthy and Pauline Henry were third for the women. It was a day of few pbs but there were some, most notably from Nicky Davey and Fintan Whelan who are both Dublin City Marathon bound like so many of the runners today. The full results can be found here.

Sligo Coast to Coast 10 Mile Race Results

By Club PRO - Paul Deering 

The honours in the inaugural Coast to Coast ten mile road race from Strandhill to Rosses Point went to North Leitrim's Liam Feely in a very impressive 53.40. The County Sligo Road Race League winner proved just too strong for Sligo AC's Richard Gorman in second who can nevertheless be pleased with a pb of 53.54.

Indeed, the pleasant conditions resulted in many pbs for the distance for the 300 plus field and this will ensure the race becomes a permanent fixture on the local running calendar.

Dermot McDermott, more used to the track than long runs on the road, came home in third in 54.25. Lucy Brennan was second woman home in 63.20 with Sligo AC club mate Patricia Foy third in 66.01. Sligo AC had 15 finishers in the top 25 and there were wins in both the male and female categories.

Jonathan Hill and (57.42) and Ultan McNasser (59.29) also broke the hour mark. Seamus Somers took the over 40 honours in 56.59, Michael Clancy was second male over 50 in 66.31 and Enda Whelan was first over 60 in 72.12.

In the over 40 category Roseanne Mitchell claimed the honours in 70.42 with Sligo AC colleague, Deirdre Deering third in 72.52.

On Sunday next the club will be out in force again for the Grange 10k with the IT Sligo 5k on the following Saturday another date pencilled in.

The full results can be found here.

Upcoming Fixtures

County Sligo Fixtures

September:

• 27th - County Sligo Primary Schools Relay - IT Sligo
• 29th - Sligo Coast to Coast 10 Mile - More info

October:

• 5th - County Sligo Primary Schools Cross Country and Walks - IT Sligo
• 6th - Grange 10K - More info
• 12th - IT Sligo Knocknarea Arena 5K - More info
• 13th - Collooney 5K - More info
• 19th - Coney Island Challenge 10K/10 Mile/Walk - More info
• 20th - County Sligo Cross Country U10/U11/U12/U13/U14/U16/U18 - Sligo Racecourse

November:

• 24th - Oxfield 5K

Connacht Fixtures

October:

• 12th - Connacht Primary Schools Cross Country Senior/Novice/Intermediate/Master - Longford
• 27th - Connacht Even Ages U12/U14/U16/U18 Senior/Novice/Intermediate/Master - Leitrim

November:

• 3rd - Connacht Uneven Ages U11/U13/U15/U17/U19 Senior/Novice/Intermediate/Master - Roscommon

Other Fixtures

October:

• 28th - Dublin Marathon

The Flatline Half-Marathon

The club's many marathoners were in action in Athlone at the week-end putting themselves to the test over the half distance. In hotter than expected conditions, Sligo AC had the second biggest club representation for the Flatline event.

The club's top nine male finishers all made it under 1.30 with the highest placed being Seamus Somers, an excellent 19th in 1.16.46. Lucy Brennan was first female over 50 in 1.27.56 while Mari Johnston, this year's female Road Race League winner, was 2nd over 40 in 1.29.25.

Second male home for the club was Michael O'Connell in 1.22.21 followed in third by Rory Kelly in 1.23.08. Fourth was Damien Kennedy in 1.23.31, fifth was Conal Sexton in 1.24.47, sixth- Declan Foley in 1.28.54, seventh- Paul Deering in 1.29.17, eighth-Nicky Davey in 1.29.50, ninth- Michael Clancy in 1.29.53 and tenth Conor Healy in 1.38.14.

The club's top ten female finishers were: Lucy Brennan (1.27.56), Mari Johnston (1.29.25), Roseanne Mitchell (1.34), Deirdre Deering (1.40.03), Linda Higgins (1.47.58), Fionnuala Silke (1.51.56), Pauline Henry (1.51.13),Vanessa Foley (1.54.28), Triona O'Dowd Hill (1.58.37), Aisling Gillen (1.59.10) and Sarah McCaffrey (1.59.25).

Full results are on Precision Timing.

The next big race on the calendar is the ten mile Coast to Coast challenge on September 29th which again will see the club out in full force. It will be an ideal preparation for the Dublin City Marathon or the upcoming cross country season. Enter here.

Introduction to Cross Country

Sligo AC will commence an introduction to Cross Country each Saturday from 11.30am to 12.30. This is designed for all ages from 8 years up.

Whether you wish to compete in Cross Country Competition or improve basic fitness all are welcome. Sessions will be divided into ability groups to suit all requirements. As Sessions will increase with each participants fitness, regular attendance is recommended.

Meeting place is Sligo Racecourse at 11.25am to commence 11.30am.

Calry Parish 3 Mile Race

Heavy rain and a strong wind made far from ideal conditions for today's Calry Parish 3 mile race at The Mall.

Conor McCullagh took the honours 17.34 with Sligo AC's Patricia Foy following up her Harvest 5k victory with another win, being first woman home in 19.15. Sligo AC's Michael Casey was second overall (first male over 40) in 18.12 with club juvenile Thomas Delahunt third in 18.36 and also first junior male.

Michael Clancy was 5th in 18.50 (third male 040) with juveniles, Philip Hunter 7th (second junior male) in 19.14, Leo Doherty 10th in 19.29 (third junior male) and Keenan Deering 12th in 20.27 (fifth junior male). Martin Feeney was 13th in 20.31.

Roseanne Mitchell in 20.55 was first female over 40 (15th overall), Ashling Cawley was second senior woman in 21.32 and 19th overall.

Ciaran Donnellan was 20th in 21.46 with Orla Mulvihill 21st in 22.03 (first junior female) and Aoife Morris 22nd in 22.08 (second female juvenile) with Laura Joyce 27th overall and third female juvenile in 24.07.

Rose Young was 30th overall in 25.00. Giuila Davey was 34th overall in 25.53 (third senior woman).

More photos can be found here. Results here.

-Paul Deering Club PRO

Harvest 5k Run

The Harvest 5k Run in Calry on Wednesday evening proved to be testing in heavy rain but a number of pbs were achieved.

The race was won by Ultan McNasser of Sligo AC in 16.43 with club mate David Kearins third in 17.30. Michael Casey was fourth in 18.08 and Karl Boyce fifth in 18.19.

It was a pb night for Fintan Whelan 18.49 (7th overall) and for juvenile Keenan Deering 20.08 (11th overall).

First woman home was Patricia Foy of Sligo AC in 19.01 (8th overall). Martin Feeney was 14th in 20.32. Ashling Cawley was third woman home in 21.18 while Enda Whelan was 22nd in 22.38.

Results can be found here.

Next up is the Calry Parish 3 mile run on Saturday at The Mall.

-Paul Deering Club PRO

Warriors Weekend

Congratulations to Emmett Dunleavy, runner up in the Warriors' Run in Strandhill on Saturday. A winner in 2011, Emmett came home in 54.06 which was quicker than his winning time of 55.16 two years ago. Emmett has proven to be a very consistent performer for the club over the gruelling test and we're sure he'll be back challenging for top spot again in 2014.

The club had upwards on 60 participants, both male and female and with the near ideal conditions and hard training paying off there were plenty of pbs. The club extends its very best wishes to all who competed, especially those who took part for the first time. Killian O'Connor was fourth in 58.53 and Seamus Somers was fifth in 58.55. Six time winner Lucy Brennan was the club's first woman home in 74.25 followed by Deirdre Deering in 80.56 and Fiona Fahey in 83.28

The full results are on Precision Timing.

Interestingly there were six married couples from the club who took part on Saturday: Jonathan and Triona Hill; Nicky and Guilia Davey; Ciaran and Ciara Donnellan, Joe and Aisling Davey, Pal and Fiona Gilmartin and Paul and Deirdre Deering. Will there be more for the Dublin marathon?

If the quads aren't too sore there's a 5k in Calry on Wednesday evening and on Saturday there's a three miler on The Mall.

Gorman second in Longford Half

by Club PRO Paul Deering 

Sligo AC’s Richard Gorman recorded a personal best when finishing runner up in the Longford half marathon on Sunday last. Gorman (37) has had a good record in Longford over the past couple of years and Sunday saw him put in an exceptional performance in ideal running conditions.

Collooney based Gorman finished in 1:11:20, a time which would rank him amongst the best in the country in his age category. Sligo AC’s Damien McSharry did the full marathon and got under the magical three hour mark in 2.58.

Meanwhile, the club was represented at the National Masters’ track championships in Tullamore where there were category medals for Kevin McGlone and John McDermott. McGlone was winner of the over 45 category in a very competitive 800 metres. McDermott claimed two silver medals in the 100m and 200m.

The winners of the Sligo County Road Race League have been announced. Mari Johnston won the womens’ title, the second Sligo AC winner of the league in its three years, following Roseanne Mitchell’s win in 2011. Liam Feely of North Leitrim was the runaway winner of the mens’ title. Mari continued her winning ways on Sunday last when first woman home in the Kilmactigue 10km. Neal Higgins was second home overall in what was a very tough course.

The Warriors’ Run will dominate next week-end and the club will have many participants both male and female, some tackling the gruelling race for the first time. The club will have strong chances to win individual, and team category prizes.

Those in the mood after the Warriors’ for more racing, there’s a 5k in Calry on Wednesday week, September 4th.. The Harvest Run will get underway at 7.30pm at Calry Community Park. The annual Calry Parish three mile fun run/walk will be held on Saturday, September 7th at 3pm . Taking in a scenic route across Riverside it finishes at The Mall where children’s races take place beforehand at 2pm.

Track and Field National League Final Placings

The National League Final took place in Tullamore on Sunday with Sligo County Mens Team in second and the Women in third Team. Manager Dermot Mc Dermott did a great job in assembling all the Athletes and also competed and thanks also to Carina Clarke who looked after the Ladies Team for the Final.

Placings:
100ms / 400ms hurdles - Women -  Louise Mulvaney third in both.
110ms hurdles / 5k walk - Men - Kevin McGlynn fourth in both.
400ms hurdles - Men - Dermot McDermott third.
100/200ms - Men - Zak Irwin first and third.
1500ms / 3000ms Women - Eimear O’Brien first.
100 ms / triple jump - Women - Ania Bednoz first in both.
200ms - Women - Stacey Kerr first.
400ms - Women -  Claire Conlon fourth.
4 by 100ms relay - Men - Odhran Gildea,  Zak Irwin, Aaron Cadden, Kieran Elliott first.
4 by 100ms relay - Women - Stacey Kerr, Louise Mulvaney, Ania Bednoz, Emily Burns second.
4 by 400ms - Women - Stacey Kerr, Louise Mulvaney, Claire Conlon, Emily Burns second.
4 by 400ms - Men -  Colm Bourke, Zak Irwin, Cian Mc Bride, Kieran Elliott second.
1500ms Walk - Women - Rachel Conlon second.
1500ms - Men - Alberto Sanchez second.
400ms - Men - Kieran Elliott first.
800ms - Men - William Crowe fourth.
800ms - Women - Sorcha Fallon second.
5000ms - Men - Emmet Dunleavy first.
3k Steeplechase - Men - Kilian O Connor third.
Long Jump / Triple Jump - Men - Colm Bourke third in both.
Long Jump - Womens - Emily Burns third.
Javelin - Womens - Chantel Foley third.
High Jump - Womens - Ania Bednoz fourth.
Hammer - Mens - Stephen Reynolds second.

Sligo AC well represented at National Finals

By Club PRO Paul Deering 

Sligo AC members were to the fore in the Woodie’s DIY National League final at the Tullamore Harriers Stadium on Sunday. Competing for the county team in Division One (Men) and Division Two (women) there were several placings and excellent performances. At the end of a long day of tough competition, Sligo County men were second overall and the women third. It will mean County Sligo have won promotion to the Premier Division.

The County Sligo Squad

Sligo AC’s Emmett Dunleavy’s switch to the track of late has been going quite well and he won the 5,000m in 15.10.56 while another first came from Zak Irwin in the 200m in a time of 22.11 while he was third in the 100m in 11.32. Alberto Sanchez was second in the 1500m in 4.01 while coach Dermot McDermott was third in the 400m hurdles in 58.61. In the long jump, young Colm Burke continued his recent impressive form, finishing third with a leap of 6.77m. John McDermott was fourth in the pole vault and Stephen Reynolds was second in the hammer, throwing 32.16m. The four by 100m relay team was first in 43.10. In the women’s Division Two league, Stacey Kerr won the 200m in 27.02 and was fourth in 400m in 69.06. Ania Bednorz won the 100m in 13.12 while she was also first in the triple jump with a leap of 11.82m. Rachel Conlon put in a great effort in the 1,500m walk finishing runner up in 7.49.23 in a very close finish. Emily Burns was third in the long jump.

Meanwhile, there was a good turn out mid-week for the County Sligo 9k trail championships in Union Wood. It was another testing run, coming after two tough eight mile road races in the past two weeks. Ross McLynn led the field home with Jonathan Hill and Seamus Somers in hot pursuit. Great credit goes to Rory Connor for his efforts in putting on the race which should become an annual event. Results are available here.

In other news, Richard Gorman clocked up another victory this year, this time in the Castlebar 10k road race on Sunday in a time of 34.38. The Sligo AC vest was also seen in Cork last week with Philip Morrison proudly wearing the colours in the Southern capital where he finished a five mile event on Haulbowline Naval Base in 33.37.

Please see the club's Facebook page for lots more photos.

Club well represented at two testing eight miler road races

First three women home in the Knocknarea Mountain Loop 8 Miler: Patricia Foy (centre) with Niamh Nicholson (left) second and Deirdre Deering (right) third.

by Club PRO Paul Deering 

Testing hill runs were the order of the week-end with eight mile road races at opposite ends of the county.

On Friday night in excellent running conditions, a field of 100 brave runners took to the Gleniff Horseshoe in the latest race in the County League sponsored by Sligo Credit Union and Filan's Centra. Switched to an eight miler this year, the route was as tough as ever, starting and ending at the Ben Whisken Centre. Seamus Somers flew the flag for the club coming home third in an impressive 47.50 followed by Dannon Hannon (5th overall, first over 50) in 48.27. North Leitrim AC's Liam Feely led the field home in 45.02. Alan Kearns was 7th in 50.15 with Ross Downey 8th in 50.18 and Neal Higgins 9th in 51.00.

The race in the women's categories was every bit as close and exciting with Mari Johnston continuing her good form this year, triumphing in 54.40 followed by Aisling Van Rensburg (North Sligo) in 54.56 and Roseanne Mitchell in 58.55, the latter returning to near her best after recent injury. Fiona Fahey Gilmartin was eight in 61.04 and Pauline Henry 11th in 64.37. Noelle Galvin continues to improve and finished in 67.59. The club picked up a number of category prizes. Full results can be found here.

Attention switched to Strandhill on Sunday and the club had many runners amongst the 144 strong field in the 8 Mile Knocknarea Mountain Loop Race. The highest placed club member was Richard Gorman who was runner up to Liam Feely who did the double. Richard, who intends concentrating on cross country this coming winter, completed the testing route in 44.42, some 22 seconds behind the North Leitrim AC athlete. The next highest placed Sligo AC runner was Damien Kennedy (5th) in 52.04 with Karl Boyce (8th) in 53.57 and Joe Stagg (15th) in 57.08 (first over 50) and Philip Morrison 24th in 58.22.

Sligo AC recorded a victory through Patricia Foy who was first woman home in an excellent 55.05. Deirdre Deering was third woman across the line in 60.52 with Fiona Fahey Gilmartin fourth (third senior) in 62.03 and Catherine Bradley fifth in 62.08 and Ashling Cawley sixth in 63.13. Full results can be found here.

Please see the club's Facebook page for more photos etc.

Latest news catchup

by Club PRO Paul Deering 

It may be holiday season but the club's members haven't been taking a break with plenty of representation at various events over the past couple of weeks.

Shane Hayes winning 'The Gathering 5K' in Donegal on Monday last

Following on from the great success of Emmett Dunleavy with his silver medal performance in the 3,000m steeplechase at the national championships and Zak Irwin's two bronze medals at the Schools International in Santry there has also been plenty of local action.

 Father and son, Enda and Fintan Whelan represented the club at the national half marathon in the Phoenix Park at the week-end. Enda posted 1.40 while Fintan managed a pb in 1.39, a continuation of his recent good form having managed another pb over 8k in Coolaney in 31.33.

Also in action over the Bank Holiday week-end was Nicky Davey who was just on 40 minutes in the Dublin Bay 10k.

In Coolaney, US based Sligo student, Tommy Casey, showed a clean pair of heels to the field winning in 25.11 with Sligo AC club mate, Seamus Somers third in 27.41 and Ultan McNasser fourth in 28.08. There were category wins for Danny Hannon, Seamus Somers, Patricia Foy and Roseanne Mitchell. Of note also on the night was the performance of 14 year old Keenan Deering (35.58) who knocked two minutes off his pb from his last 8k in Rosses Point earlier in the summer.

On Sunday last the club was well represented at the Ballisodare 5k which was won by Tommy Casey in 15.26 in what was one of his last races on home soil before his return to the US. The club wishes him continued success in his academic studies and sporting life in the States. Richard Gorman who ran an 8k in Mullinabreena earlier in the day was second in Ballisodare in 17 minutes flat while Shane Hayes, back to his best after injury, was third in 17.20. A notable performance was that of Ciaran McMurray (15) who came home in 18.26. He was sixth in Coolaney in a very impressive 29.14. First woman home in Ballisodare was Catherine Bradley in 21.39 while Sligo AC colleague, Pauline Henry was second in 22.05.

Shane Hayes continued his good form in Tir Chonaill AC's The Gathering 5k in Donegal town on Monday evening last winning in a pb of 17.14. Another young athlete doing the club proud was Philip Hunter who broke the 20 minute mark for the first time, finishing eight overall and first junior in Donegal in 19.53.

This coming week-end there's the next race in the County Sligo Road Race League sponsored by Sligo Credit Union and Filan's Centra, the Gleniff Horseshoe 8 mile event. There are also eight mile races in Ballinafad on Saturday and Strandhill on Sunday. Anyone looking for a shorter distance, there is a three mile race in aid of North West Hospice in Mullaghmore on Sunday afternoon around the scenic Head.

County Sligo Trail Running Championships 2013

This 9k Trail Run will take place in the beautiful surroundings of Sligo's Union Wood on the outskirts of the town and is open to all levels of runner.

The start will be just off the main Sligo-Ballygawley Road at the entrance to the Woods opposite Union Foods. Showers will be available afterwards in the nearby Castle Dargan Hotel, followed by a BBQ at the hotel.

Entry will be limited to 200 runners and the price is €13. You can enter online here - also, please keep an eye on our facebook page for updates and further information relating to this and other Sligo AC supported races.

The Sligo 'Coast to Coast' 10 Mile Road Race

The Sligo 'Coast to Coast' is a unique event in the northwest of Ireland. It's a 10 miler which starts in the beautiful seaside village of Strandhill, loops around Sligo bay and finishes in the scenic village of Rosses Point.

This fantastic event which will see competitors bussed from Rosses Point beach car park to the start line in Strandhill will take place on the 29th September 2013. The course is fast and flat and will suit all levels of runners, walkers and wheelchair competitors.

You can enter online here - also, please keep an eye on our facebook page for updates and further information relating to this and other Sligo AC supported races.

Knocknarea Mountain Loop 8 Mile Road Race

Our friends in Strand Celtic are holding the Knocknarea Mountain Loop Run/Walk fundraiser again this year on Sunday the 11th of August 2013.

The walk kicks off at 10am followed by the run at 10.45am. You can register on the day from 9am at Sligo Enterprise Centre (Airport Business Park), Strandhill, or on Saturday the 10th of August at Strand Celtic Clubhouse, Strandhill Community Park from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

Entry fees for the run and walk are economically priced at €10 for the run, and €5 for the walk. This 8 Mile event is a great warm up for anyone taking part in the Warriors Run and is open to people of all abilities and you will have plenty of time to recover for the main event on the 31st of August.

Ransboro 10KM Road Race Results

Last Saturday evening saw the running of the annual Ransboro 10KM Road Race. This years event featured a modified (easier??) course and had some added spice with the addition of the new Interclub Perpetual Competition between Sligo AC, North Sligo AC and Dunshaughlin AC.

I think it's fair to say that this was another great race (2013 has had some crackers!) with yet another sprint finish, this time between Liam Feely or North Leitrim and Robbie Matthews of Dunshaughlin AC (with Liam winning). 

A full report will be posted shortly.

Full results from the race can be found here.

Interclub Challenge Perpetual Cup

Sligo AC's Mens captain Michael O'Connell with Sligo AC Chairman Seamus Somers and Ladies Captain Deidre Deering.

The Ransboro 10KM Road Race was host to a new Interclub Challenge competition between Sligo AC, North Sligo AC and Dunshaughlin AC (Meath).

Sligo AC where successful on this occasion and I'm told are already planning the defence of the title, in Meath, in 2014.

Ladies Fit for Life 5K Series - Race 4, Skreen

Last night saw the final race of this years Fit for Life 5K series. Held in Skreen, this race followed on from the high standards set in Doorly Park, Grange and Tubbercurry before.

Results from Race 4 are now available here.

Congratulations, again, to all who participated, and helped with this years Fit for Life 5K race series.

Well done Zak

Well done to Sligo AC's Zak Irwin who was a member of Ireland's 4X100 relay team at the European Team Championships at Morton Stadium in Dublin at the week-end.

Well done ladies

Well done to all the ladies that took part in last nights 5k in Tubbercurry (results). It was back to the sunshine again this week after last weeks rain in Grange. The last round of the series is next Tuesday in Skreen.

Ransboro 10KM

The Ransboro 10k is in its 5th year and this year in aid of Sligo Cancer Support Services and Ransboro Development Association.

This AAI registered race is Race 6 in the Sligo Filans Centra / Sligo Credit Union Road Race League Race series.

Nestled under the southern flank of Knocknarae, the picturesque course winds its way through quiet country backroads. The undulating course is ideal preparation for the Warriors Run in August Registration and Number collection from 4:30pm in Ransboro National School.

• Prizes for first 3 male/female finishers
• Prizes for first 2 male/female in usual age categories

Walkers start at 6.00pm with Runners off at 6.30pm. There will be pacers for 45, 50 and 55 minutes.

After race refreshments served in Ransboro National School.

Register now on RunIreland €12.00. Registration on the day €15.00.

Contact Trevor 0868299335 or Clive 0872100481 for further details.

Sligo AC at Connacht Team Event, Athlone IT

Younger members do club proud. Pics by Carina Clarke.

Some 23 teams and 8 relay teams competed for Sligo Athletic Club in Athlone last Saturday in the Connacht Team Event competition.

All competed well and it was a good day all round for the club. Good experience was gained and some were unlucky to miss out on medals but all performed well with some personal best performances on the hottest day this year.

Congratulations to U9’s Esa McCaffrey and Eabha Cawley who won bronze in the 60m. They will now compete in the All Ireland team event in Ballybofey on 29th June.

In the U12 competition the club was represented by Eoghan Donaghy, Shane McGlone and Lauren French. Eoghan continued his good form in the turbo javelin and secured a silver medal. Eoghan will compete in the All Ireland U12 in Tullamore on 6th July.


Meanwhile the club extends best wishes to all competing in the Connacht juvenile track championships in Athlone on Sunday next (June 23rd). A strong team of athletes from under 13 upwards will compete for the club.

More photos from the day can be found on the Sligo AC's Facebook page.

Emmett wins Streets of Sligo 5k in sprint finish

An exciting sprint between Sligo AC's Emmett Dunleavy and Roger Barrett Of Ballina AC was a fitting finale to The Sligo Champion Streets of Sligo 5k road race this afternoon.

Some 450 runners and walkers took part in ideal running conditions with many personal bests being set.

A highlight of this year's event was the large number of athletes from clubs outside Sligo who took part.

A large crowd at the finish in O'Connell Street saw Emmett hold on by just a second to claim the title for the first time in the third annual running of the event, held in conjunction with Sligo AC.

Emmett won in 15.09 with Roger Barrett of Ballina AC in second with a time of 15:10. Third was Liam Feely of North Leitrim AC, last year's winner, in 15.31.

First woman home was leading Irish runner, Teresa McGloin from Finn Valley, who ran 16.48 and was ahead of Sligo AC's Mari Johnston in 18.35 and Catriona Higgins of Sportsworld third in 18.50.

Sligo AC did well also in the team events. The senior men's team of Emmett Dunleavy, Richard Gorman, Jonathan Hill and Ultan McNasser were victorious as was the club's master team of Seamus Somers, Mel Casserly, Danny Hannon and Paul Deering.

The senior women's honours went to North Sligo AC's Aisling Van Rensburg, Sarah Healy, Patricia McCosker and Andrea Horgan.

Sligo AC were the master women champions with Mari Johnston leading home her team followed by Catherine Bradley, Deirdre Deering and Cathy McCarthy.

The category winners were:

Overall First Male: Emmett Dunleavy in 15.09
Overall First Female: Teresa McGloin of Finn Valley in 16.48

Senior Male:
First was Roger Barrett Ballina AC in 15.10
Second: Liam Feely North Leitrim AC in 15.31
Third: Eamon McAndrew, Sligo Tri Club in 15.48

Senior female:
First: Catriona Higgins of Sportsworld in 18.50
Second: Aisling Van Rensburg of North Sligo AC in 18.54
Third: Sarah Healy of North Sligo AC in 1924

Male over 40:
First:Seamus Somers Sligo AC in 16.30
Second: Paul Ward Tir Chonaill AC in 16.42
Third:Thomas Kelly North Sligo AC in 17.04

Female over 40:
First: Mari Johnston Sligo AC in 18.35
Second: Monica Henry of South Sligo AC 19.58
Third: Lorraine Hosey of South Sligo AC in 20.07

Male over 45:
First: Derek Hunter in 17.50
Second: Paul McGrath of South Sligo AC in 18:34
Third: Brendan Brett of South Sligo AC in 18:49

Female over 45
First: Ann Hunter in 20.42
Second: Catherine Bradley of Sligo AC in 21.10
Third: Linda Ward in 21.36

Male over 50
First Danny Hannon of Sligo AC in 17.10
Second: Michael Clancy of Sligo AC 19.50

Female over 50
First: Geraldine McWeeney in 21.57
Second: Mary Furey of Tireragh AC in 22.03

Male over 60 winner: Vincent Flannery in 19.51
Female over 60 winner: Olivia Seery in 28.47

First male junior: Alex Hunter in 17.37
First female junior: Tara Carty of Sligo AC

Results can be found here.

Are you Ireland's Fittest Family?

This just in from Animo TV:

>>>>>>

We are making a brand new competition series for RTE 1 called 'Ireland's Fittest Family' and we are hoping to spread the word as the closing date for applications is this Thursday the 13th of June.

Twelve families will compete against each other for the title of Ireland's Fittest Family 2013 and a cash prize of €15,000.

The challenges that the families will compete in will be adventure based and challenge even the fittest of individuals. We are looking to get the word out to different clubs and organisations across the country. It would be great to get this information circulated within the rugby and tag rugby community. Even if members cannot take part themselves, they may know of a family who would be up for the challenge.

The families will be mentored by some of the countries best sporting names including Olympic boxing Champion Kenny Egan, International Rugby coach Eddie O' Sullivan and Legendary Clare GAA manager Davy Fitz. They will also be taking part in adventure race courses in some of the countries most breathtaking locations. We are including families from all types of sporting disciplines and backgrounds. The entire family do not have to all train in the one sport either.

A team must consist of 4 family members of immediate relation, the minimum age requirement is 14 years but there is no upward age limit, there must be male and female on each team and at least one parent.

If you require any further information, or know of a family that would be suitable, please feel free to get in touch.

Visit our Homepage to apply @ www.rte.ie/irelandsfittestfamily
Follow the link to view our promo https://vimeo.com/66652810.

Got what is takes? You'll have to prove it to the mentors http://vimeo.com/67403401

Connacht Team Championships, and Maugherow 10K

Well done to all who competed in the Connacht team championships at under 9,10,11 and 12 in Athlone today.

There were some great performances from all the pairings in what proved to be a very long day of competition in searing temperatures.

This evening the club was also well represented in the Maugherow 10k.

Sligo AC's Marie Johnson was first woman home followed by Aisling Van Rensburg of North Sligo and Sarah Healy, also of North Sligo AC. It was Marie's second win in the Road Race league.

Liam Feely of North Leitrim AC was the overall winner followed by Tommy Kelly of North Sligo AC and Seamus Somers of Sligo AC.

Well done all in very trying conditions.

The County Sligo Trail Running Championships

 The Co Sligo Trail Running Championships take place on the 14th of August over a 9k trail in Union Wood.

Well known trailblazer Rory Conor will be taking people for a run on the route this Friday and every Friday at 7pm from the gate opposite Union Foods. Everyone is welcome so spread the word.

Streets of Sligo 5K

Just under two weeks to go to The Sligo Champion Streets of Sligo 5k run in conjunction with Sligo AC. Date: Sunday, June 16th at 1.15pm.

Register online at precisiontiming.net or fitmagazine.ie

Also, entries wil be accepted at the offices of The Sligo Champion, Markievicz Road. Online entries will close on Friday week.

Entries will be accepted at the Champion offices on Saturday, June 15th and on the morning of the race (closing at midday). Entry fee is 12 euro with juniors (under 19) five euro.

Accurate course, chip timing. The race will be started by the Mayor of Sligo, Councillor David Cawley at Markievicz Road at 1.15pm.

 Prizes across a range of categories, including this year, team prizes for senior and master teams. This is the third The Sligo Champion Streets of Sligo 5k and a field of over 500 runners and walkers are expected to take part so please enter early.

 This year, the race will be part of the Filan's Centra/Sligo Credit Union Sligo Road Race League. Post race refreshments and prizegiving will take place at the Glasshouse Hotel.

 Course will be the same as in the previous two years with a finish on O'Connell Street. Gardaí and Civil Defence will be on duty but marshals are also needed. Any enquiries to Paul Deering 087 2341819.

River Moy Half Marathon

Sligo AC enjoyed notable success at the River Moy Half Marathon in Ballina at the weekend.

The club had three finishers in the top seven and there were some pbs and prizes for those who travelled to the North Mayo town.

Richard Gorman was third overall in a time of 1.13.35 with Seamus Somers fifth in 1.17.02 and Michael O'Connell seventh in 1.18.50. Jonathan Hill was 12th in 1.20.20.

Other finishers included Joe Davey in 1.41.50 and Conor McCarthy in 1.58.30.

First Sligo AC woman home was Cathy McCarthy in a new pb of 1.43.14 followed by Fiona Fahey Gilmartin in another pb of 1.46.25 and Triona O'Dowd Hill in 1.54.09 with Sarah McCaffrey crossing the line in 2.03.53

Well done to all. Congrats also to the men and women who competed so well in the first round of the national league at the week-end.

Civic Reception

Mayor of Sligo, Councillor David Cawley hosted a Civic Reception at City Hall this evening to honour the winning Sligo AC National Road Relay team of Dermot McDermott, David Harper, Alberto Sanchez and James McGeough.

County Sligo Team Under 9-11 Championships

The club extends its congratulations to all its young members who participated in the County Sligo Team Under 9-11 championships at IT Sligo track this evening.

The club was well represented at all disciplines including, sprint, middle distance and field events.

There were plenty of medal winners in the under 9, 10 and 11 age groups and impressive performances by all, including from many who were experiencing competitive action for the first time.

The various teams now qualify for the Connacht finals in Athlone IT next month.

Amcor Flexibles Sligo AC 8K

A great turnout of nearly 300 participants took part in the Amcor Flexibles sponsored Sligo AC 8k in Rosses Point this evening. The fourth annual running of the event was held in splendid weather conditions with many fast times being posted.

First man home was Liam Feely of North Leitrim AC who beat off a very close challenge of Emmett Dunleavy of Sligo AC, winner of the race for the previous three years.

First woman home was Sligo AC's Mari Johnston, her first Sligo Road Race League win, showing her best form having missed most of last year through injury.

Full results can be viewed on the here. The club extends its sincere thanks to Amcor Flexibles, all participants, those who provided refreshments, the many volunteers who marshalled along the course, those who helped out with providing the teas and coffees and finally to our hosts, all those at Sligo Yacht Club.

Ballyshannon 5k & Other news

Sligo AC's Kevin McGlone (above receiving prize) produced a superb pb performance of 16.28 to finish fourth overall and 1st over 40 in tonight's Ballyshannon 5k. Other category prize winners on the night were David Kearns who was third over forty and Keenan Deering who was third junior male.

Ultan McNasser was ninth overall, Rory Connor (26th) in 18.51 and Paul Deering 30th overall in 19.20. Mark Burns did 19.38. Deirdre Deering was the club's only female representative coming home in 21.35.

Meanwhile, it's just a week to go to the Amcor Flexibles sponsored Sligo AC 8k Road Race/Walk in Rosses Point. The race starts at the Yacht Club at 7pm and also finishes there. Registration from 5pm at the Yacht Club. Online entry is 12 euro and is 15 euro on the day. Lots of prizes across a range of age categories. AAI permit granted, accurate course. Enter at Run Ireland.com or Precision Timing.net.
Date: Friday, May 17th 2013, Rosses Point.

The club congratulates all participants and medal winners in the County Sligo Track and Field Juvenile Championships at Sligo IT on Wednesday night last.

Best wishes to the juveniles taking part in next Wednesday's County Team Championships.

Finn Valley Open Track and Field

Sligo AC juveniles brought home plenty of medals from the Finn Valley Open Track and Field meeting on Wednesday, April 24th. Well done to all medal winners including Ross Doherty in the 300m and javelin; sprinters Graham and Stacey Kerr; racewalkers Roisin Clarke, Orla Delahunt and Robbie Kelly and Lauren Cadden in the under 13 80m.

Busy weekend!

Another great day for the club with excellent performances at home and abroad on Sunday. Pride of place goes to teenager David Harper who earned many plaudits for his third place finish in the Spar Mile Challenge in the Phoenix Park, a precursor to the Great Ireland 10k Run. Coached by Dermot McDermott, David has an exciting future ahead of him and the club wishes him continued success.

The club was represented in the senior and master categories in the Great Ireland Run. Conditions weren't ideal with very strong winds but everyone can be very proud of their achievements.

Official results appear in Monday's Irish Independent and online from midday*

Likewise, well done to those who represented the club in the Rotterdam marathon where conditions of a different nature were experienced. Heat was the main factor to battle here. Well done to all, especially those who did pbs.

 Meanwhile, preparations continue apace for the club's 8k road race on May 17th at 7pm. The course will have a new start and finish and the course was measured at the week-end. More details later.

* EDIT: after a correction Richard Gorman of Sligo AC received gold for the M35 age group. Well done Richard on another outstanding race and result!

National Road Relay Title for Sligo AC

Sligo AC produced one its best performances at national level in many years when winning the National Road Relay Championships in Dublin on Sunday.

Over 250 athletes competed in the Woodie’s DIY National Road Relay Championships in Raheny and the senior Sligo AC men's team of James McGeough, Alberto Sanchez, Dermot McDermott and David Harper came out on top for Sligo AC.

The team produced a brilliant performance to win the senior title ahead of Dublin clubs Raheny Shamrock and Clonliffe Harriers AC. Sligo AC's 800m athlete David Harper showed a great burst of speed to put Sligo into an early lead with Raheny, Clonliffe and Finn Valley all in close attendance. Finn Valley AC began to make an impression and were the leaders at the second changeover with Clonliffe and Raheny now back in second and third respectively.

The crucial three mile leg saw Alberto Sanchez of Sligo AC put in a stellar performance to record a time of 14.22. Sanchez demonstrated great strength to hand over in the lead team mate Dermot McDermott in a time of 28:48. At this stage Raheny were only three seconds behind Sligo AC. Clonliffe Harriers AC at this point were 100m back in third place going into the final leg.

The final two mile leg turned into an exciting battle between McDermott of Sligo AC and O’Leary of Raheny Shamrock. McDermott looked the more comfortable of the two as the two athletes headed out on the final mile of the race. McDermott made the decisive break coming up the finishing straight and looked full of running on his way to an impressive victory in a combined time of 38:31. Raheny Shamrock AC finished in second place in a time of 38:34 ahead of third place Clonliffe Harriers in a time of 38:35.

Meanwhile, the club will be represented in the capital again this coming week-end at the SPAR Great Ireland Run. The national 10k event through the Phoenix Park will provide a testing challenge for the club's representatives. The club will also be represented further afield this week-end when a number of members compete in the Rotterdam Marathon. It will have been the culmination of several weeks of training in tough weather conditions for the athletes concerned, some of whom completed their last marathon only last October in Dublin.

The Sligo 8K now open for entries!

Sligo AC are delighted to announce The AMCOR FLEXIBLES SLIGO 8K Run/Walk, which will take place on Friday, May 17th, 2013 at 7pm in Rosses Point, Sligo.

Ciaran Donnellan (Amcor Flexibles), Vanessa Foley, Michael O'Connell, Emmet Dunleavey, Carina Clarke, Seamus Somers (All Sligo AC) and Collette Hamilton (Sligo Credit Union) at the presentation of the 2013 Sligo 8K.

Featuring a flat fast course with AAI Permit, and Chip timing. Registration and Chip Collection from 5 O'Clock in The Yacht Club in Rosses Point. Prizes for first 3 male/female finishers as well as prizes for first 2 male/female in the usual age categories. After race refreshments will be served in The Yacht Club. Contact 087 6405190 for further details.

To enter the race please click here.

Carina makes it two in a row!

The club was well represented in the 300 strong field of runners in the Carney 10k today in very cold and blustery conditions.

Five out of the top ten positions in the men's field were filled by club members while Carina Clarke made it two wins in a row in the Road Race League with a pb of 38.24. Third woman home was Mari Johnston, also of Sligo AC, in a pb too of 39.57.

Richard Gorman 2nd overall with Liam Feely winner and Stephen Prentice third overall with Mel Casserly.

Richard Gorman set the pace for the men, coming home second overall in 33.32 with Seamus Somers 4th in 35.06 and Michael O'Connell 5th in 36.12. Jonathan Hill was 9th in 36.40 with Ultan McNasser 10th in 36.49. Ross Downey was a very impressive 12th overall in 37.10.

Mari Johnston (3rd woman overall) and Carina Clarke (first woman overall) in today's Carney 10k with new pbs.

There were category prizes for several club members. Carina Clarke followed up her Tubbercurry 10k success with another impressive win in Carney, leading the women's field from the off. Mari was next as third woman overall with Roseanne Mitchell the next club member home in 42.29 followed by Cathy McCarthy in a new pb of 44.51, Catherine Bradley in 45.18, Deirdre Deering in 45.36, Pauline Henry in 47.06, Fiona Fahey Gilmartin in a pb of 47.12 and Ashling Cawley in 47.26.

Complete results can be found here. Lots of photos are available on the Club's Facebook page here.

Good Friday Grange 5K Race

There was a good turn out of members at the Good Friday 5k road race in Grange. The event, in its third year, was held as a fundraiser for Cardiac Services at Sligo Regional Hospital.

It attracted a field of over 120 runners who braved the cold, icy conditions. Many of the runners used the race as a 'warm up' for the Carney 10k on Easter Monday. It was good to see Ultan McNasser back competing once again, securing second place in a time of 17.32. He was followed in third by Eamon Dunbar in 18.09 Eamon was also first veteran.

The race was won by Niall Hoey of North Sligo AC in 17.23. Rory Connor was second veteran home in 19.11. There were also some good performances from Sligo AC's younger members. Noel Burke was first junior home in 21 minutes and third placed junior was Keenan Deering in a new pb of 21.56. Orla Mulvihill was second female junior in 22.04.

 Best of luck to all competing in Carney. Don't forget to wear the club vest.

Sligo AC in action at Cara Bundoran 10 Mile Road Race

Excellent turn out from the club at the Cara Bundoran 10 mile road race and 10k event today. Sligo AC had the overall winner in the ten mile event and the club was also first in both the men's and women's team events in the ten miler.

Over 30 members participate in testing conditions

Well done to the winner of the ten mile race Richard Gorman, who along with Michael O'Connell, Seamus Somers and Neal Higgins made up the successful men's team.

A big well done too to Lucy Brennan who was third overall in the women's category of the ten miler and who led home the winning Sligo AC team which also included, Roseanne Mitchell, Deirdre Deering and Pauline Henry.

Connacht Indoor Championships

A host of medals were won by Sligo AC members at the Connacht Indoor Championships in Athlone on Sunday. From individual to realy events the club's athletes were to the fore in both juvenile and senior grades. Two bus loads made the journey to the new indoor arena and they did their coaches proud. There were also plenty of parents present to cheer on their offspring.

Many of the club's younger members were making their debuts not only at the track but also experiencing indoor running for the first time. It all augurs well for the many events ahead including the track season.

This coming week-end will see a strong club presence at the Cara Bundoran 10 mile road race. There'll be a field of over 800 runners for the event which also includes a 10k for the first time.

The race is a excellent start to the road race season and the events come thick and fast soon after with the Tubbercurry 10k on St. Patrick's Day kicking off this year's Road Race League that features ten races spread over several months and ending in October with the Grange 10k.

Intermediate & Masters Cross Country Championships

Sligo AC’s young members showed the way with some impressive medal winning performances at the all-Ireland cross country championships in Gransha, Derry on Sunday.

From under 11 through to the masters category Sligo AC was well represented and the club’s coaches can be quite pleased with how the day went.

In unusually mild weather for cross country, the day got off to a great start when the club’s girls’ under eleven representatives, Meadhbh Mooney, Amy Deering and Caoimhe Connor helped the county to the bronze medal position.

The club’s girls’ under 13 team of Aoife Morris, Ailbhe Morgan, Tara Carty, Eadoinn Kinsella and Nadine Deering earned bronze medals while the under 13 boys’ team led by Leo Doherty (4th) and Noel Bourke, Liam Carty and Jack Connor were third which helped secure silver medals in the inter-county category.

There were also bronze medals for the club at girls’ under 15 level with Caelinn McGonagle (10th) leading home Kate Carty, Rhiona Connor and Jane McCormack.

Keenan Deering represented the club at under 15 while Thomas Delahunt was the club’s sole runner at under 17, both putting in spirited performances.

The club had ladies and mens masters’ teams and by the time their races came on in the afternoon conditions were quite testing.

The ladies team were led home by Mari Johnston, who was returning to cross country after a lengthy lay off due to injury, Cindy McCarty, Deirdre Deering and Cathy McCarthy.

Michael O’Connell continued his impressive cross country form of late with an excellent effort in the masters’ race, leading the club’s team home in a top thirty finish with Mel Casserly, Rory Connor, Bill Carty and Paul Deering following in.

The intermediate team acquitted themselves well also and featured debutants, Jonathan Hill, Ross Downey and Andrew Duffy. Conal Sexton also competed while Seamus Somers was first across the line for the club.

See the clubs facebook page for more photos.