Eoin Murray reports on last nights Grand Prix Series race: The 5th race in the grand prix series (5 mile), took place last night. 50 athletes toed the line, to compete for the Michael Murphy cup in conditions that were ideal for a race. Our thanks to the Murphy family for their continued sponsorship and support of the race, and to Orla Murphy for making the presentation. Thanks also to the numerous people who turned up on the night to officiate and to Malahide cricket club for putting their facilities at our disposal.
It was a staggered start, an open handicap with the slower athletes going off first. The first two home in the grand prix were in the first group to set off with Fiona Hayes and Padraig Murray showing a clean pair of heels to the chasing pack. Fiona taking the lead for the first 2 miles before Padraig taking over and not relinquishing the lead, showing his exertions in the BHAA Dunboyne 5 mile on Tuesday night had not impeded his performance. The winner in the grand prix was Padraig Murray, followed by Fiona Hayes and Dermot Kelly slicing through the pack to take third place. First over the line on the night was a guest of the grand prix and previous winner of the race Jean Carr, displaying no loss of her competitive edge. Fastest Athlete on the night was Ernie Ramsey in a PB of 27.08, a second PB in 3 days over 5 miles as Ernie had also run 27.21 in the BHAA race on Tuesday night.
After 5 races, the overall leader of the series is now Ray Dunne by 1 point, followed by Ger Kirwan and Ernie Ramsey a further 5 points behind. The next race is Monday 11th June not Tuesday 12th, will be in Santry or Malahide at 8.00, location will be advised.
To view the results of the Mick Murphy 5 Mile please click on the link below:
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