Women’s Meet & Train, Race 2, Bushy Park, 3/1/2016

Torrential rain woke us all up on Sunday morning but thankfully it abated by the time our fearless group arrived at Sportsworld in Bushy Park for the second of the four race WM&T winter league. With many of our racers taking part in the Meath Intermediate in the Cow Park in December we were unable to field teams for the first WM&T race, leaving team attendance compulsory for the next three. So sluggish Christmas legs were ignored in preparations for this 2 miler. Pegged originally as a cross country, the race was changed at the last minute to a path race as much of the park ground was impassable. Claire Ni Fhaircheallaigh was chief supporter and photographer on the day – thanks for coming along Claire – it was fantastic to get the shout outs around the course!

The same could be said of the paths however as we discovered on the first of the two laps – with ankle deep, lengthy puddles putting a stop to many gallops. Matched with 150 meters or so on muddy slick grass with a sharp turn or two, this was a course to be reckoned with. Laura’s recent cross country adventures stood her in good stead however as she charged through the obstacles to take an early and very strong lead. Laura defied all odds (returning from a week’s skiing at midnight on Saturday!) to run a fantastic race, leading by 150-200 meters throughout before being caught with just half a mile to go. Impressive stuff Laura – looking forward to seeing what you can do at the next race and thanks for turning out – we’re sure you’d rather have been tucked up in bed!

After a conservative start on the narrow path Norma and Ciara moved steadily through the opposition to take a number of scalps.Norma must have some secret race preparation ingredient: she ran strongly throughout and overtook a large number before powering ahead to the finish in 13th position. Well done Norma! What’s your secret?! Close behind Norma was Ciara, running strongly as always and finishing 16th.

Roisin was next through, fighting off a challenger with yards to go and finishing 27th. Close behind was Emily, again suffering a little from the tough course, but nonetheless managing a fantastic 32nd position. Mirela started her running year in style, ploughing through the floods and keeping her place to finish in 48th position.

Special kudos to Annette as this was her first ever race! Having taken up running in early 2015, Annette has participated in a few ‘timed running event’s (i.e. Park runs) but had no racing experience. Despite starting out a little fast Annette clung on bravely to come in an excellent 59th position. Looking forward to seeing what more training, miles, and race experience brings Annette!

Annette was followed by Eileen in 91st place – Eileen’s regular racing recently has stood her in good stead. More to come from you Eileen! Keep up the good work! Another novice to WM&T racing was Rosemary, home in position 108 and who clearly enjoyed her race judging by her happy smiles afterwards.

WM&T is a fantastic introduction to team competition: the races are very well organised, the teams are well put together, the course is short and the atmosphere is great. A great morning’s work from our two Dunboyne AC teams – well done to all!