The 37th running of the Michael Murphy Memorial 5 Mile took place in Malahide Castle grounds last night. This race is now one of the cornerstones of the Clonliffe club season and is one of the jewels in the crown of the club’s Grand Prix series. As always the race attracted a very substantial number of athletes with in excess of 60 starters taking to the line. The race is over two laps through the picturesque castle grounds and the field was set on their way on what was a perfect night for a race and was last night run as a sealed handicap with the whole field starting together. It was particularly pleasing to have the Murphy family once again in attendance and Clonliffe Harriers are extremely grateful to them for continuing with their sponsorship of the prize for the fastest athlete in the race. That prize went to Grand Prix star Tom Sherlock who scorched around the circuit in 27.16. The top three in the handicap were Dave Brady, 2nd Alan Curley and 3rd Mark Bermingham. Maura Matthews was the fastest woman on the night. In addition to the fine turnout of athletes there was a great turnout of Clonliffe people who officiated with nearly 20 officials on the night including club President Paddy Marley all of whom were in attendance at the prize giving which thanks to the good offices of Malahide Cricket Club was held in the cricket club’s bar. Next up for the Grand Prix is the 4 mile grass race on Thursday next June 30th.
