Maynooth, on a refreshing Winter's morning. What better way to spend the day than at the IUAA Road Relays? As usual, the University was exceedingly well represented, fielding 4 women's teams and 3 men's teams.
But it was the Ladies who stole the show, travelling home the M8 with silver medals for their mantelpieces. Sally McCarthy, Sinead O Connor, Laura Crowe and Mary Fitzgerald very nearly knocked DCU off their golden perch, which they've been sat on since 2004, by finishing as runners-up. 'The first UCC girl' were the words on everyone's lips as McCarthy strode home after completing the first lap of the one mile course in 5:10, and over 10 seconds (over 70m!) ahead of her nearest pursuer. O' Connor kept the team within touching distance of UCC's first medal at these championships since 2006 with a hardfought double lap. Next, Crowe spread her wings and soared through the field to land herself in second position. Finally, Fitzgerald anchored her team to their silver lining, fighting off a late charge from the DCU 'B' team.
Three out of the four womens teams placed in the top 10, an achievement in its own right. While later, the Men's 'A' team crossed the line in 10th position, proving that University athletics is as rich as ever. The standout male of the day would have to go to Kieran James, who ran a personal best time in his mile leg of 4:34, only 14 seconds behind the winner of the stage.
A very well done to all our new athletes too who travelled up for their first competition. Hopefully ye enjoyed the day and experience!
Also, our rivals from down the Model Farm Road lost out to each of their corresponding UCC teams!
A full set of results can be found here http://sindar.net/iuaa/results/meet/263/
