Ailish and Sergiu battle to Half Marathon medals

Ailish Malone and Sergiu Ciobanu collected National Half Marathon individual medals today in the Phoenix Park. Brian MacMahon was just outside the medals in 4th place.

On what was described as a difficult course Ailish’s time of 80.15 was one of her fastest. After a great run in the recent Fingal 10km it was no surprise to see Ailish always amongst the leading ladies. Entering the park after 6 miles Ailish was in bronze medal position but she fought well over the undulating second half to capture her best effort finish at a national event.

With some last minute withdrawals from our men’s team, Sergiu and Brian lead the way. Dropped from the lead pack just before 4 miles Brian hung on to secure another 4th place finish at the Nationals in a time of 69.35.  Just under two minutes ahead (67.41) was Sergiu. Having lost touch with the leaders just before 5 miles, Sergiu ran his usual dogged race to the end. Raheny’s Mick Clohissey was the winner in a fine time of 65.55

Third man home was David Brady in 78.02 for a great 18th place finish.

Other club members racing today were 1:31:29 Alex Eustace, 1:39:43 Cathal O Sullivan, 1:26:58 Paddy Tuite 5th place in this age category and 1:36:14 Pat Byrne with 4th place in his age category.