Crusader raider Frazer wins Cracker 5k

The Christmas Cracker 5k in Santry today drew a large entry on what was a new date for this race St. Stephen`s Day. The fairly grim weather conditions of continuous rain and cold wind failed to deter the festive atmosphere but clearly had an effect on times with the battering endured by the athletes up through Northwood ruling out fast times.

When race director Mark McDonald set the field on their way with a lap plus of the Morton Stadium track to be completed before heading onto the Santry roads Clonliffe man Tudor Moldovan was already to the helm leading the field out of the stadium. Some 15 minutes later the athletes re entered with Crusaders John Frazer at the head of proceedings to take the Cracker in a time of 15.35.3, an impressive time in the tough conditions. Next to finish was Tudor in 15.41 with Star of the Sea man Eoin Callaghan 3rd in 15.55.8.

Up and coming junior athlete Brian Flanagan was again very impressive placing 4th overall in 16.09 and 1st junior man.

The women`s race was won by Junior international Hope Saunders in an excellent 18.22. Emma Donlan (MSB) was 2nd and 3rd was Maria Dolan (Rathfarnham). First junior prize went to Clonliffe`s Alannah Cooley.

In the masters categories men: 1st O/35 Willam Walsh, 1st O/40 Turlough Conway, 1st O/45 Gerry Moore, 1st O/50 Clonliffe old boy Dermot Redmond. Women: 1st O/35 Jacqui Dunphy, 1st O/40 Angela Charlton, 1st O/45 Susan Byrne, 1st O/50 Rosemary Long.

In the team race Clonliffe did the double winning both men and women`s race, with Crusaders 2nd in the men.

Clonliffe would like to thank ERP, Spar and Sub 4, An Garda Siochana, St. John`s Ambulance, all who turned out to officiate and you the athletes, we look forward to seeing you at next year`s Cracker on St. Stephen`s Day.

Full results click : Christmas Cracker 5k 2014 FINAL RESULTS