Racing conditions were good for the running of the historic 59th Annual Hollymount International Road Race 10k ( Sunday November 17).

It’s one of the most popular winter road races in the region – a unique village atmosphere with a warm welcome embracing all participants and supporters, and the misty rural landscape is a familiar backdrop. 

There was a light breeze stirring the flagpoles among the election posters. It was a bit stronger out on the course by the low stone walls. Thankfully, the sun appeared as the field came to the finish line

The 10k route mirrored the familiar path of previous years –  the course takes runners on three loops of the village, culminating in a grand finish at the top of the street. 

Race winner Michael Flanagan Galway City Harriers led out with a strong pace on the first lap, and maintained it to come home with 20 seconds to spare in a new pb 34:18 .

When Michael won Hollymount in 2022, it was the first time in the event’s 57 year history that a father and son won the race – Tom Flanagan won back in 1967, and was there again today to see his son win.

Tuam AC athletes filled the rest of the winner’s podium – 2nd Paul Kearney in 34.37 and 3rd Sean Burke in 36:13.

Caroline Coulter Tireragh AC won the women’s race in 40:49  She’s a consistent performer in road and cross-country races around the region. As is Angela O’Connor Mayo AC W55,  she had a great run for 2nd place 42:28. Denise Barrett Loughrea was 3rd in 43:21.

Eamonn Joyce was the first of Mayo AC’s fourteen finishers in fifth place overall in 36:24.

Hollymount 10k Age category Prize winners were:

o60 Breege Cribbin 55:11 and Tommy Neville 40:21

o50 Michelle Murphy Liverpool 47:36 and Peadar Gallagher 36:17

o40 Dee Corcoran Mayo AC 45:45, and Gearóid Healy 37:29

 

There was an excellent turnout of 120 finishers with good support especially from Tuam AC, Mayo AC and other local clubs.

Hollymount’s race organiser Sean Reilly was assisted by an excellent crew of volunteers, among them Matthew Gill, John Timothy, Ronnie Naylor (Timing). 

At prizegiving he thanked all who helped with the event – the athletes who ran, entries, photos, Neil Chester and the annual Liverpool area visitors, Ronnie Naylor, charity partner Mayo Mental Health Association, and especially those who provided refreshments at the Community Hall race HQ.

Sean looked forward to Hollymount 2025 when the event celebrates it’s 60th edition.

Full results and photos are at www.mayoac.com.