Latest news with #Drogheda&DistrictAC
Irish Independent
22-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Drogheda & District AC's Mary Leech runs into the record books with world best in relay race
The record-breaking feat took place on Wednesday in Lucan, where the Irish quartet clocked an astonishing 10:02.78, smashing the previous Women's 50+ record by 11.86 seconds. The long-standing record had been held by the American national team since 2019, but it now belongs to Ireland- thanks in part to the tireless work and dedication of our very own Leech. Mary wasn't the only local face contributing to this historic achievement. Fellow clubmate Yasmin Canning was a key part of the specially assembled challenge team that helped facilitate the attempt, ensuring optimal pacing and support throughout the event. The electric atmosphere in Lucan was matched only by the determination on the track, as the Irish W50 team ran a near-flawless race, showcasing not only their exceptional fitness but also remarkable team coordination. Needless to say, everyone associated with Drogheda & District AC is incredibly proud of Mary and Yasmin. Their dedication and sportsmanship continue to inspire everyone at the club and in the wider community. This new world record is a testament not only to the athletes' elite talent but also to the strength of masters athletics in Ireland. Meanwhile, there was a thrilling finish to the championship season for some of Drogheda & District AC's younger athletes, who shone brightly at the National Juvenile 'B' Championships and Relays held in Tullamore the weekend before last. The D&D contingent brought home an impressive five All-Ireland medals - one gold, two silver and two bronze - alongside several personal best performances in one of the final national meets of the season. In a display of speed, strength and determination, the athletes left their mark on the national stage. Dearbhla Johnston secured silver in the Girls U12 600m, clocking a personal best of 1:53.34, and Dani Nolan also claimed silver in the Girls U15 Shot Put, with a throw of 7.45m. ADVERTISEMENT Cian Bolton earned bronze in the Boys U12 600m, running a personal best of 1:51.06. Michael Iloduba delivered a standout performance, winning gold in the Boys U16 100m in 12.31sec, and later taking bronze in the Long Jump with a leap of 5.11m. These achievements capped off a season full of growth and promise, with the young athletes showing remarkable development across disciplines. The event in Tullamore also showcased the camaraderie, team spirit, and love of the sport that defines juvenile athletics. Coaches and supporters praised the dedication of the athletes and the joy they brought to each event. Elsewhere, despite relentless rain and slick conditions, more than 1,800 runners braved the elements on Sunday morning for the Biofreeze Irish Runner 10-Mile race, which also served as the National 10-Mile Championships. Held in Dublin's Phoenix Park, the race saw impressive performances from elite athletes and local club runners alike. The morning brought almost continuous rainfall, turning the normally fast, tree-lined route into a true test of grit and determination. With temperatures holding around 16°C, runners were spared the cold but had to contend with puddles, wet grass underfoot and reduced visibility at times. Among the standout local performances was Liam Mulligan, who placed 11th overall with a superb time of 53:47, navigating the wet course with precision and strength. Paul Smith also cracked the top 30, crossing the line in 56:15, an impressive result in national competition. Further down the field, strong efforts came from John Perkins (1:12:25), Andrea McArdle (1:15:30), and Mike Staunton (1:27:00), all showcasing admirable determination under tough race-day conditions. A total of 1,817 runners completed the race, which was a testament to both the event's popularity and the dedication of the running community. Volunteers lined the course despite the weather, and race organisers ensured safety and support were maintained throughout. With national titles on the line, the competition was fierce at the front, but as always, the real victory belonged to every runner who crossed the finish line in Phoenix Park.
Irish Independent
14-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Drogheda has plenty to cheer as talented duo Coscoran and Donnelly sparkle at the Morton Games
Two-time Olympian Coscoran, who is from Balbriggan but attended St Mary's DS and still runs in the colours of Star of the Sea AC in Julianstown, emerged triumphant in the Morton Mile as he set a meeting record. The 29-year-old finished in a time of 3:51.12, with Cathal Doyle (3:51.26) and Darragh McElhinney (3:51.99) both running personal bests as they completed the podium placings. Coscoran's time was six seconds faster than he achieved when he won the same race in 2022, and his steady progress was highlighted in May of this year when he placed second overall in the long distance events at the Miami Grand Slam Track meet to earn a €44,000 payday. Coscoran will vouch that the willingness to step away from the shore and enter the deepest of waters is sometimes what separates a national class athlete from a solid club runner. And so Tadhg Donnelly of Drogheda & District AC duly lined up for his race at the Morton Games on Friday night. His head must have been buzzing as the Starter called the athletes to the line for the Albie Thomas Memorial 5000m. The dilemma facing Donnelly was quite simple. A quality field packed full of international-class athletes, many with personal best times up to 30 seconds faster than Donnelly, made his task a daunting one, especially in front of his home crowd so to speak. To hang back from the expected pace risked being left behind, whereas going with the pack risked imploding mid-race if logic were to win out on the day. But cometh the hour, cometh the man, and Donnelly was up for the fight in spades. An opening lap of 63 seconds had the field stretched out and the next 11 and a half laps were all about the pain that comes with hard, sustained pace running. Going through the first mile in an eye-opening four minutes and 16 seconds, the pack were on for a projected 13:20 time, which isn't far off world-class running. Despite the searing heat, with the mercury showing close on 26 degrees, Donnelly hung in and passed through two miles in about 8:42, much to the delight of the large group of supporters in attendance. Going out on the last mile, with the pack well strung out, the lactic acid began to build up in Donnelly's legs, but he wasn't for giving in and dug deep into the well of pain that few runners have ever experienced. Chasing hard over the last two laps, Donnelly crossed the line in 10th place in a new outdoor personal best time of 13:52, in a race that was won in a blistering 13:18. Less than 36 hours later Donnelly was back on the track and won the Men's Irish Life Dublin Race Series Fingal 10K in Swords, in a time of 29:48. He will soon return to America to resume his studies, and on last Friday's showing a sub 13:40 5,000m run is within reach if the conditions and race profile were to align.
Irish Independent
01-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Drogheda & District's Tadhg Donnelly destroys strong field to win St Coca's 5K
Leading the trio was Andrew Kelly, who burst out of the blocks with intent and set a blistering pace through the first 200. Despite being reeled in by eventual winner Eoghan Buggy of St Abban's AC, Kelly dug deep to fend off a late surge from Éanna McElroy of Ennis Track Club, crossing the line in a superb 51.43sec. Just behind him, Louis O'Shea demonstrated both grit and consistency as he held off Ciarán Dee of Leevale AC in a closely fought battle, clocking a strong 51.72sec. Completing the Drogheda lineup was Jimmy English, who ran a steady race to finish in 56.48sec, rounding off a successful day for the club's 400m squad. With these performances, the Drogheda men once again underscored their growing presence on the national sprinting stage. There was plenty to cheer about for Drogheda & District AC on Friday last too, as 23-year-old Tadhg Donnelly delivered a commanding performance to win the prestigious St Coca's AC 5K in Kilcock, Co Kildare. In a highly competitive field, Donnelly crossed the line first in a blistering time of 14:04, finishing 10 seconds ahead of his nearest rival, Daniel Canala. Remarkably, this wasn't even a personal best for the in-form runner, suggesting that even greater achievements are just around the corner. All eyes now turn to the upcoming Morton Games on Friday week, where Donnelly is widely tipped to break new ground. Paul Smith also impressed, clocking a solid 15:53 as he continued a fine run of form. It was especially heartening to see Anna Isgro back in action, completing the course in 21:16. Conor Cooney and Olivia Reilly also represented Drogheda & District AC with pride, finishing in 24:48 and 24:51 respectively. ADVERTISEMENT Spirits were high as Drogheda & District AC members took to the roads on Thursday evening for the Clonee 10K, hosted by Dunboyne AC. With 527 finishers braving the elements, it was a true testament to the dedication and camaraderie that defines local running. The event was impeccably organised, featuring a reasonably flat course ideal for fast times - though the weather had other plans as the rain kept both runners and supporters soaked throughout the evening. However, the stewards and volunteers stood patiently in the downpour to keep everything running smoothly and the post-race hospitality didn't disappoint, with hot drinks and delicious pizza served at the Grasshopper Inn . Drogheda & District had a great turnout, with several strong performances. Aedan Prone led the charge with an impressive time of 36:14, followed by Joe Hammel (39:44), Thomas Breen (40:04), and Karl Cooney (48:08). Nuala Reilly not only broke the 50-minute mark with 49:53, but also took first place in her category - a fantastic achievement. Other finishers included David Cooney (50:06), Karen O'Connell (50:11), Seamus Roe (50:56), Mike Staunton (51:07), Margaret Carroll (51:44) and Claire Smith, who crossed the line in 1:02:43. Elsewhere, Liam Mulligan performed very well in the Phoenix Park on Sunday at the Biofreeze Athletics Ireland Race Series five-mile event, finishing in 11th place with a fine time of 25:42.
Irish Independent
24-06-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Tadhg Donnelly leads the charge as Drogheda & District AC take Dunshaughlin by storm
Against this high-calibre field, Drogheda & District AC rose to the occasion in stunning fashion, clinching the coveted first-place team prize in what many consider one of the most competitive road races on the provincial calendar. Tadhg Donnelly started well and got into the lead group, holding off tough competition to put in a challenge for the win at the half-way point. In the end he was beaten by just seven seconds as he scorching around the course with a time of 29:37. He was backed by strong performances from teammates Paul Smith, Colin Dyas and the determined Colin Leonard. The atmosphere in Dunshaughlin was electric, with enthusiastic local support lining the course and good - although warm - summer running conditions contributing to fast times across the board. The event has a good, flat route, although there is a tough hill just past the half-way point which caught out those that did not pay enough respect to it. Paul Smith, Paddy Murphy and Nuala Reilly all won best-for-age category prizes, and Paul Kierans had a stunning personal best (36:42), almost a minute and a half quicker than his last 10k in Drogheda seven weeks ago. For Drogheda & District AC, taking the overall title adds to a growing list of achievements this season and underlines their strength and depth in team competition. They can now look forward with confidence to entering teams at upcoming road and track racing events, including the annual Louth Track Championships which will be held at Lourdes Stadium on Thursday July 17. Elsewhere, two of Drogheda & District's standout local athletes delivered stellar performances at the UCD Track & Field Meet 2025, each recording a season's best in the Men's 400 metres. Gerry O'Connor clocked a time of 1:01.51, while Jimmy English surged to a strong finish in 56.45, both demonstrating form and determination as they competed among a talented field. Their efforts marked a significant step forward in their seasons, reflecting hard work and consistent improvement on the track. For English, the performance was a return to form after a challenging early season, while O'Connor's run marked his most competitive time yet, showing he's hitting peak condition as summer races approach. ADVERTISEMENT Both men ran smart, focused races and it's a testament to the training they've put in. Meanwhile, veteran sprinter Tony Corcoran delivered a masterclass in speed and determination at the Northern Ireland Masters Track & Field Championships held on Saturday at the Mary Peters Track in Belfast. Competing in the over-60 age category, Corcoran clinched double gold with commanding performances in both the 100m and 200m sprints. He stormed to victory in the 100m, crossing the line in a blistering 13.74 seconds, before following up with another dominant run in the 200m, clocking an impressive 28.5sec. His times not only secured first-place finishes in both events but also highlighted his exceptional athleticism and dedication to the sport.
Irish Independent
16-06-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Drogheda and District athletes excel at Boyne 5K
The very best of sportsmanship was everywhere to be seen at the packed race that started on the road just outside St Oliver Plunket National School on Ballymakenny Road. We had the good fortune of a pause in the torrential rain as a very large field gathered- just under 600 entries for the race, young and old, tall and small, so many smiles and every single runner, some with poker faces, some who's faces would only betray a thousand words of agony, but every single runner a champion! The course was well liked and the organisers really went to town making it a terrific evening for all. Leading the charge were the trio of Tadhg Donnelly who's just back from New York, Colin Dyas, who's been in fantastic form this year, and Paul Smith who's always up for a challenge. And that's just what the competitors got in this out and back course on the gentle rolling hills near the new Northern Cross route. Tadhg, who won last year's event, albeit on a slightly different course, did have some reasonably good competition from Clonliffe Harriers man Ian Guidan but in the end he was well able for him finishing over half a minute ahead in 14:37, setting a new course record as well as being crowned champion of the race. Paul Smith motored well also to finish in a solid 16:12 and took the over 40's category prize. Colin Dyas ran well finishing in 16:38. Meanwhile both Paul Kierans and Aedan Prone ran out of their skin for Personal Best times and they were separated by just four seconds. Thomas Breen deserves special mention for an outstanding performance finishing the Boyne 5k race in a speedy 19:26. The Drogheda men took first place in the team honours too. Meanwhile Drogheda ladies were not to be outdone with a superb run from Eimear Knowles who was fifth lady at the race completing the course in 20:37. Andrea McArdle ran very well showing that the consistent training is paying off for her. She finished the race in 21:56 and with Eimear Marron and Helen Dillon just behind, the ladies also took first team. Young Cian Bolton clearly had great fun and showed that he's a tidy runner too, finishing in 21:09 - terrific running. What made the evening all the more memorable were seeing those that for one reason or another were missing from the races in recent times. Paul Reilly was much pleased with his first race since the same event last year, and although two minutes slower he will continue to improve throughout the season. Stephen Duggan and Sean Toner also both ran very impressively. Then there were those that can be seen training every week and this was their moment to shine. Tony Hartwick ran the 5k in just over 35 minutes, Margo Duffy and Bridie Floyd completed the race in just over 40 minutes, wonderful running by wonderful people. Leinster Juvenile Championships Young athletes from Drogheda & District AC delivered standout performances at the Leinster Juveniles U12–U19 Track & Field Championships held in Tullamore last weekend. In the Girls U17 100m, Ruby Berrill ran a strong race in Heat 1, placing fifth with a time of 14.55 seconds. Ruby's day didn't end there - she later helped the Louth relay team claim silver in the U17 Girls 4x100m, showcasing both individual talent and teamwork. Michael Iloduba put in an impressive performance in the Boys U16 100m, clocking 12.74 seconds to take third in his heat. He went on to compete in a highly competitive final, finishing seventh with a time of 13.01 seconds—a strong showing at provincial level. In the Girls U15 300m, Bonnie Breach placed sixth in Heat 2, finishing in 47.37 seconds, while Hannah Cunningham held her own in the Girls U14 1500m, securing eleventh place with a time of 5:24.47. Relay events brought further success. In the Girls U15 4x100m, Bonnie Breach helped power the Louth team to a bronze medal, rounding off a rewarding day on the track. The Boys U19 Louth relay team also saw double club representation, with James Traynor and Cormac Russell contributing to a silver-medal performance in the 4x100m.
