Letterkenny AC: McCauley claims third place with exceptional run at Cork City Marathon

McAuley crossed the finish line with a personal best time of 2 hours, 25 minutes, and 46 seconds, continuing his remarkable run of form after winning the Strabane-Lifford Half Marathon just two weeks ago.

The victory belonged to Chris Jeuken of Derg A.C., who dominated the field from start to finish with a winning time of 2:18:55. McAuley and Michael Fox (Armagh A.C) worked together for the first 20mile, before foxy seized his opportunity and broke clear, pushing hard into the wind to secure second place on the podium.

What makes McAuley’s performance even more impressive is his significant improvement since completing the London Marathon on April 27th earlier this year. In London, McAuley battled through very warm conditions to finish with a time of 2:44:22. Today’s time represents a remarkable improvement of nearly 19 minutes, showcasing his exceptional recovery and training in the short five-week period between the two marathons.

The Creeslough 5K race delivered a spectacular display of athletic talent on Friday 30th May as runners tackled the fast & friendly course organized by MFP. Perfect racing conditions combined with the event’s renowned finish atmosphere created an ideal environment for competitors of all abilities.

Letterkenny Athletic Club’s Cian Friel continued his exceptional form, claiming second place overall with an impressive time of 17:15, narrowly missing the top spot and another personal best but delivering a performance worthy of celebration.

Ray McDermott secured a commendable 16th position overall with a time of 20:57. Frank Pinder continued the club’s strong showing in the M60 division, crossing the finish line in 22:34 to place 31st overall.

LAC was well represented in the women’s divisions. Linda Cronin navigated the course well, finishing in 27:39. Noreen Pinder rounded out the Letterkenny A.C contingent with a solid performance in the F50 category, completing the course in 32:30.

Participants and spectators alike praised MFP for their exceptional organization, particularly highlighting the electric atmosphere at the finish line where community support and encouragement created a celebratory environment for all competitors. The course design, with its balance of challenging sections and fast stretches, allowed runners to push their limits while enjoying the experience.

The Trentagh National School 5K saw an impressive turnout from Letterkenny Athletic Club (LAC) members, who dominated the field with strong performances across all age categories. The event, held on Tuesday 27th May in perfect running conditions, showcased the club’s depth of talent while raising essential funds for Trentagh National School.

Ewan Summers led the LAC contingent with a remarkable time of 18:06, securing 4th place overall and demonstrating exceptional promise in the Under 18 category. Hot on his heels was veteran runner Dessie Shiels, who crossed the line just seven seconds later at 18:13. Dipping for the line Dessie claimed 5th place with photo finish over Rosses Patrick Trimble who finished on an identical time, showing that the M40 category remains highly competitive.

The club’s second Under 18 runner, David McFadden, delivered a solid performance with a time of 20:10, good enough for 14th position. The M40 category saw further LAC success with Peter Gallagher finishing 15th overall in 20:20, while Colly O’Donnell (20:35), Michael Mooney (20:43), and Stephen Shiels (21:28), finishing 17th, 19th, and 20th respectively.

Frances Judge led the female LAC runners with an impressive 22:34. Frances timed her efforts perfectly, outkicking Frank Pinder (22:36) and Noel Lynch (23:25) who both delivering strong performances.

Alicia McNulty crossed the line in 23:32, while Margaret Shiels finished 10 seconds behind in a commendable 23:42. Anne Robinson followed in quick succession with a time of 23:48.

A cluster of LAC runners, including Liam Wiseman (23:50), Brian McBride (24:17), and Kenny King (24:55), along with Diane Bustard (25:28) Kevin Lynch (27:04) and Linda Cronin (27:07) finished almost simultaneously, hoping to make it back to Trentagh church hall in time for their homemade traybakes and scones. Claire Price (27:56) and Denise Gallagher (28:02) following shortly after, while Jean McGlinchey (28:19) and James Doherty (28:45) added to the list of LAC finishers.

Noreen Sharkey (29:18), Rory Kennedy (29:32), and Noelle Lynch (29:38) maintain strong paces, all dipping under 30 minutes for the 5k distance. Shaun O’Donnell (31:13), Noreen Pinder (32:31), and Angela McGee (34:46) rounded out the LAC participants, all displaying tremendous determination to complete the challenging course.

Letterkenny AC would like to remind all athletic clubs, all sports clubs & teams, all sport & social clubs, gyms and any individuals that the annual Interfirms 5k takes place on Sunday the 8th of June at 10.30AM.

Pre entry online or on the morning of the race (from Aura Leisure centre). The race will return to its original loop of Ballyraine (starting at old Dunnes stores). More info can be found on Letterkenny AC social media pages.