Walking away on what was a good day weather wise at Finn Valley on Sunday one had to be happy with the event that had just unfolded.
A record turnout overall, exciting races and possibly two to three thousand people in total athletes supporters organisers etc.
An exciting course on which spectators were able to engage fully and the host club providing excellent organisation.
Early days we had a Valley individual and team victory led by Jessica Roberts coming through strongly to take the title and similarly solicitor Linda Emery coming through to nail the bronze support from Carmel McBride and Joanne McNabb ensured team gold interesting to note the number of those who had joined FVAC to engage simply recreationally stepping up and one hopes this would be the mantra and ambition of more club members in the Fit4Life group.
Highlight in the mens, which was a thrilling race won by Milford AC, was the silver individual medal to Brian McCrea, a teacher in the local St Columba’s College, the team finishing having given it a shot early on but fading. Again encouraging response and participation here.
Underage team gold to both under-11 squads, under-13 girls, under-15 girls and under-19 boys.
Within each race so many thrilling runs even back to the under-9 group where Josh Ryan took the victory needing to dig deep in last few metres.
Sarah Bradley indicated once again that she has the right attitude for the battle to be county under-13 champ, covering serious ground in the final phase.
Individually Ben Carr, Hannah Murray, Oisin Toye, Karen Gallagher again to the fore but a reminder of the importance of support and squad athletes to deliver as was clearly evident .
As results indicate FVAC into medal in practically every age group so that in itself is important.
A good day for Valley and indeed Donegal Athletics.
