Sligo 5k Santa Run

Over 200 hardy souls togged out in Santa suits for the inaugural Sligo Santa 5k on Sunday 20th December, the proceeds of which were going to the Special Olympics. The Course was of a predominantly flat fast nature but athletes still had to endure the "artic" conditions which lay in store for them especially a bitter icy wind around finisklin. This didn't impede the athletes up front however with Sligo AC's Emmett Dunleavy battling it out with North Sligo's Tommy Carroll for first place. Dunleavy opened a gap as the race went on and won comfortably in 15.02 with Carroll taking second spot in a time of 15.21. Neal Higgins (Sligo AC) was third home in a time of 17.11. Michael O'Connell (Sligo AC) was the first veteran to finish whilst North Sligo's Feidhlim McGowan won the Junior mens section. Sligo AC's Eimear O'Brien, just back from the U.S, won the Senior womens section with Anna Reddin (Sligo AC) winning the Junior event.
Overall the Race was very well organised, with plenty of marshalls throughout the route, music to encourage the participants over the line and plenty to eat and drink afterwards in the Southern Hotel. Plaudits must go to Dermot McDermott & Ray Flynn primarily with other Sligo AC figures such as Terry Hayes, Ann McHugh, Michael Gilroy and Shane Hayes also helping out on the day. Hopefully this race will become an annual event allowing local experienced athletes as well as newcomers the chance to race over the festive season without the need to travel further afield. (More photos from the Santa Run can be found on www.facebook.com/legginit )