01 July 2009 - Bundoran Athletes at Community Games County Finals
Tír Chonaill AC Athletes who competed for Bundoran at the 'County Community Games Finals' on Sunday last in Milford and who came home with medals. Adam Gallagher picked up a silver medal in the Under 8 Boys 80 metres, Casey O'Donnell won silver in the Under 10 Girls 60m hurdles, Matthew Duffy (Bronze) in the Under 10 Boys 60m Hurdles, Shane Carr (Silver) in the Under 12 Boys Long Puck, James Stewart, Niall Carr, Cian McEniff & Timmy Goverov (Silver) in the Under 12 Boys Relay, Tori Bettie (Bronze) in the Under 14 Girls 80m Hurdles, Trish Mc Henry (Silver) in the Under 14 Girls Long Puck, Beth Travers (Silver) in the Under 14 Girls Long Jump, Conor Dawson (Bronze) in the Under 14 Boys Shot Put, Jamie Brennan (Silver) in the Under 14 Boys Long Jump and Jamie Brennan, Conor Dawson, Daire O'Reilly & Brendan Oates (Silver) in the Under 14 Boys Relay. Congrats to all our young athletes that represented the local community and good luck to those that will represent us in Athlone in late August when the 'National Finals' will be held.
30 June 2009 - Club Meeting
The next club meeting will take place this Friday evening, (03 July) in Mc Ginley’s Bar, Ballyshannon, with an 8.30pm start. High on the agenda will be the second round of the league, age group competitions, the 100k fundraiser and summer races.
30 June 2009 - Donegal Grand Prix
Next up on the Donegal Athletic Board’s Mizuno/Brian McCormick sponsored Grand Prix of road racing is the Rathmullen 5k, on Friday 03 July with a 7.30 pm start. Further details from M. Todd on 074 9158360.
30 June 2009 - European Triathlon, Austria
Two club athletes / triathletes are off to Austria this weekend to compete at the European Ironman competition. Seasoned athletes and hardened iron men, Tony Cummins and Vinny Duffy leave on Thursday morning with their competition on the Sunday 05 July. All at the club wish the two men good luck and look forward to hearing their story when they return on Monday.
30 June 2009 - Children’s Games, Templemore
On Saturday,27 June 2009. five of the club’s young athletes travel to Templemore to compete at the All Ireland finals of the U-9/10/11 team competition. Having qualified through the Ulster/NI championships and competing as pairs, they all had good performances and will have gained from the experience. Emma Rooney and Mary Flora Scott competed in the 500m while Mary also doubled with Orla Coughlan for the 60m, while Cian Hegarty and Edward Britton, with some excellent competing took a set of silver medals. Well done all.
30 June 2009 - Tailteann Games in Tullamore
Abbey Vocational School/Tir Chonaill Athletes Christopher Doherty, Karl Griffin and Louise Harvey were members of the 'Ulster Schools U17 Team' at Tullamore on Saturday last when the annual Tailteann Games/Inter Provincials was held in ideal conditions. Christopher Doherty, cleared 2.80m in the Pole Vault for a top six finish – it was a day to put down to ‘more experience gained’. Karl Griffin is gaining in experience with ever outing. In the 800m, he was up against much older athletes and ran an exceptional race to finish 4th in a time of 2mins 1.7secs. Karl did not go with the early pace which found the leaders go through the bell in 56/57 secs. He ran a controlled opening lap, of 59/60 secs and came from eighth position with 300m to go to finish an excellent 4th. Mark English was the winner in a 1min 56.4secs. Louise Harvey ran two PB’s in the 80m Hurdles and 300mHurdles and secured bronze medals. In the former she was involved in a ding dong battle with Chloe Fahy, Nenagh and Laura Langton, Kilkenny. Result - Langton, 11.9secs was adjudged the winner from Fahy,12.0secs and Harvey 12.secs.In the physically demanding 300m hurdles it was an equally close call with the medals being decided in the final 20 metres. Result Megan Kiely, Waterford, 44.3secs, Ailbhe Courtney, Tralee, 44.6secs and Louise Harvey, Abbey Voc 44.7secs.
30 June 2009 - Donegal Community Games Finals in Milford
To close a busy weekend for some parents, club coaches and officials, Milford was the venue on Sunday 28 June 2009, for the 'Donegal Community Games Athletics County Finals'. As has become the standard, all those involved in the Milford area with the organising of this event, are to be congratulated on what was a highly organised, efficient and well ran day, and they even managed some glorious sunshine too. The following Donegal Town/Tir Chonaill Athletics Club athletes qualified for the 'National Community Games Finals' in Athlone, the Girls Under 16 - (4 x 100m) Relay Team, consisting of Molly O’Gara, Leanne McInaw, Andrea Keeney and Clare Brady, the Girls Under 14 - (4 x 100m) Relay Team consisting of Kelly McGrory, Emma Brady, Kate McGowan and Karen Tracey. Other qualifiers were Under 14 Girls Hurdles – Emma Brady, Under 10 Girls Hurdles –Ellis McGovern, Under 14 Boys 800m – Mark McGuiness and Under 14 Girls Long Puck –Sophie Doherty. Qualification and Silver Medals were won by the following athletes, Molly O’Gara, U16 100m; Kate McGowan, U14 Hurdles; and Thomas McGowan, U12 Boys Ball Throw. Bronze medal were won by the following, Killian Faulkner, U10 Boys 100m; Clare Brady, U16 Girls Javelin; Ruth Gillespie, U12 Girls 100m; Kelly McGrory, U14 Girls 100m; Karen Tracey, U14 Girls Shot Putt; Girsl U12 (4 x 100m) Relay Team consisting of Chloe Masterson, Ruth Gillespie, Katir Hoad and Ciara Duggan. The following also represented the local community in individual events and had very good performances – Ciara Duggan, Katie Hoad, Chloe Masterson, Lucy McGowan,Tina Quinn, Eoin Slevin, Tia Quinn, Conor Slevin, Fiona Shovlin,Aoife Duffy, Muldoon, Shannon Cannon and Lee Murchan. Congrats to all our young athletes that represented the local community and good luck to those that will represent us in Athlone in late August when the 'National Finals' will be held.
27 June 2009 - Ballybofey 5k Race 9
It is a fine thing to observe the talent that is David Wilson, and for those of us who watched last nights race in Ballybofey, we were indeed afforded that opportunity. David, a former Junior International, departed from our shores some twenty years ago and adopted the US as his new home. He resides in Chicago with his wife and young family. David is very much enjoying his running at the moment and looking forward to some good races with the local lads while he is at home. So with old friendships rekindled and some new acquaintances made, we were treated to some vintage Wilson. The evening was warm, with hardly a breeze and from the gun it was evident that there was some good racing in store. For the first kilometre all the usual names were in the pack, Carlin, Crossan, Toner, McGlinghey and at the two kilometre marker, Kiaran Carlin held the advantage. It was at this point that Wilson made a move to the front and never looked back. At the finish, Wilson had a comfortable lead from Carlin in second place. Letterkenny athletes Gary Crossan and Ivan Toner finished in third and fourth places. Finn Valley athlete Teresa McGloin led the charge in the ladies race covering the distance in 17.49 and was followed home by Ciatriona McGranaghan in 18.28. Kay Byrne (Finn Valley) was third lady in a time of 19.12. Next club athlete to cross the line and making steady progress since his return to fitness was Ollie Thomas with 18.25 on the clock. Stephen Travers (19.40), Michael Gallagher (20.42), Sharon Meehan (22.07) John Ward (22.41), Julia McMullin (22.52), Jackie Harvey, Brian McMullin (23.55), Sinéad Donagher (23.56) and Eleanor Rooney (25.15), were all pleased with their efforts. Well done all. Results.pdf from Brendan McDaid.
25 June 2009 - Carndonagh 5k
On Wednesday evening, 24th June, Emmett McGinty was a comfortable winner of the Carndonagh 5k, which was also Round 5 of the 2009 Furey Insurances 5K Series. Theresa Doherty of InisEoghain AC had her first win in the series when she won the womens race. This race was sponsored by local firm Athlanfish (Declan McCarthy). 87 people finished the race. This race was reportedly the first in Carndonagh in almost 20 years and was a joint venture between City of Derry and InisEoghain AC.
25 June 2009 - New Facility Update
The development of the clubs new facilities at the Abbey Vocational School, Donegal Town, took another giant step forward this week. The contractors completed the tartan surfaces which includes a 130m x 6 lane staight; a 1,000m sq metres training area; three long jump/triple jump run ups/pit;a pole vault run and bed; high jump run up and beds; three shot putt circles and a hammer/discus circle/cage. Yesterday the final step began when the contractors sprayed the first coat -- green and red - onto the tartan surfaces. Within the next week a second coat of paint and lines and marking will be added. more
25 June 2009 - Athletics Ireland’s E-Zine
Note from Athletics Ireland. "We hope you enjoy the attached June edition of the 'Athletics Ireland’s E-Zine!'. The next edition will be out on Thursday 6th of August and will feature a special on the Woodie’s DIY National Senior Track and Field Championships and a preview of the World Championships. Don’t forget to let others know in the athletics community to subscribe to ezine@athleticsireland.ie to get the inside track". Athletics Ireland’s E-Zine!
22 June 2009 - Graded meeting in Dublin
Three club athletes travelled to Santry on Wednesday evening last and participated successfully in a Dublin County Board Graded meeting. Young Christopher Doherty took the opportunity to compete in the Pole Vault. In a discipline where it’s difficult to find competition he came away very happy with the experience of vaulting at a magnificent indoor arena and got some good preparation for the upcoming 'Ulster/Northern Ireland Championships' and 'Schools Inter Provincials'. Louise Harvey will also represent Ulster in the upcoming Inter Pro. next Saturday in Tullamore. She ran 27.77secs for 200m into a minus 4 breeze. Michelle Harvey, continued to improve her seasonal times and ran 4mins 37.49secs for a 2nd place finish in the 1,500m
22 June 2009 - Club Juveniles excel at Ulster/Northern Ireland Championships in Antrim 
The 'Ulster/Northern Ireland Championships' held in Antrim last week, Saturday 20th/ Sunday 21st June 2009, was a successful and happy event for a number of the clubs juvenile athletes. The two day event found a number of our athletes achieve top three winning positions, P.B. performances and many gain qualification for the upcoming 'All Ireland Championships' on 11/12th and 18th July.
22 June 2009 - Mary McLoone helps Irish Team in historic achievement in Slovakia
On a quick return visit to Slovakia, to Banka Bystrica this time, Mary McLoone leaped to a fine 12.47m in taking fifth place for Ireland at the 'European Team Championships'. The Irish team finished second behind a strong Lithuanian outfit and gain promotion for next season. Mary played an important part in Ireland’s historic performance. Competing in the Triple Jump she got out to 12.47m for a 5th place finish and assisted Ireland to a 2nd overall position and promotion to Division 1 of European athletics next season. The forty event competition over two days, for the first time combined the point’s totals of men and women. It was the best Irish Team performance in recent years. Results.pdf
22 June 2009 - Michelle Harvey wins in Santry Stadium
At the 'Dublin Track and Field Championships' on Saturday Evening in Santry Stadium, Michelle Harvey recorded a very fine victory in the 3000m with a great 9.53.86 on the clock, in what was a tough battle with St Abban athlete Claire Phelan. In cold conditions and in a race where she did all the work, she ran an excellent 9mins 53.64secs time to win. This time was very close to Michelle’s P.B. achieved last year in Australia.
22 June 2009 - Lifford 5k Race 8
The Mizuno/Brian McCormick Donegal Athletic Board’s road show moved to Lifford on Friday evening last, the 19th June 2009 with three club athletes competing. Vera Haughey was first across the line in a good 21.14, followed closely by Sharon Meehan with 21.31 on the clock. Good to see Sharon back racing again. Jackie Harvey completed the club contingent with a solid run in 22.48. Results.pdf
22 June 2009 - Irish Schools’ Track & Field Championships Televised
Note received from John Shields (Administrative Director, Irish Schools' Athletic Association). "We are happy to inform everybody that Setanta Ireland, with the support of the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, commissioned GTV Sport to capture the 'Irish Schools’ Track & Field Championships' held on the 30th May in Tullamore in three TV programmes. These will be broadcast on Setanta Ireland on Tuesday 23rd, Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th June at 6.30pm". Details.pdf
22 June 2009 - National League
Note received from Georgina Drumm, National League Coordinator. "Please find attached the points from Round 1 and Round 2 draw. This year two central venues were selected for the second leg of the league to facilitate the mix of teams entered, County, Club and Combination Team, Men and Women. I have placed all teams who have both men and women together, some clubs from the Province of Ulster and Dublin travel to Athlone, some Munster Clubs travel to Dublin".
National League Round 1Points 2009.pdf
National League Round 2 Draw.pdf
22 June 2009 -Mullaghmore Triathlon
Ten club athletes competed at the ever popular 'Mullaghmore Triathlon' on a damp and breezy Saturday morning. Niall Clancy, Canice Nicholas, Pat McManus, Julia McMullin and Olivia Murphy all competed as individuals taking in all three disciplines, the swim, 10k bike and 5k run, while Tony Cummins, Shelley Roper, Sharon McGowan, Brenda Morris and Jonathan Kennedy all competed as part of relay teams.
22 June 2009 - The Lakes 10k Blessington
Note received from Lorna Brennan (Lakeshore Striders). For all fellow runners out there, I would like to invite you to participate in what will be the inaugural event for our running club, Lakeshore Striders, in Blessington. The Lakes 10k will take place on Saturday 19th September 2009 at 11:00am following a very scenic route around the Blessington Lakes. The event itself is in conjunction with Cystic Fibrosis Ireland with our aim to pass all proceeds and donations to this worthwhile cause. Entry is now open (numbers limited to 400) at the following link, Lakes 10k. We look forward to seeing as many familiar faces as possible on the day. Regards & Thanks!! www.lakeshorestriders.com
18 June 2009 - Dubnica nad Váhom, Slovakia
Some more Pictures from Slovakia. View Pics
15 June 2009 - Tir Chonaill Women have successful Step 1 defence of National Title
Antrim was, on Sunday last, the venue for Round 1 of the 2009 ‘National League’. Tír Chonaill’s women, fresh from their recent successful trip to the ‘European Clubs’ in Slovakia, had another successful outing. After five hours of competition Pool 1 score sheet read - Tir Chonaill 110pts, Ballymena and Antrim 108pts, North Down 89pts, City of Lisburn 84pts, Abbey 78pts and Lagan Valley 60pts.
15 June 2009 - Buncrana 10k
International Boxer Tyrone McCullagh (Derry Man) surprised everyone by winning the Buncrana 10k on Saturday evening in a highly respectable 33mins 30 secs. Normally athletes from other sports only think they are good runners but in this case it was true. Letterkenny AC's Jonny Patton finished in 2nd place approx 15 secs behind with Dominic Bonner in 3rd. Pics courtsy of Inishowen AC.
09 June 2009 - Mary McLoone competes for Ireland
Tir Chonaill’s Mary McLoone, has been selected on the Irish team to compete in the first European Team Championships (formerly European Cup) which will be held on the 20th and 21st of June in Banska, Slovakia. This exciting new format will see men and women’s teams combine making it more exciting, unpredictable and by putting more emphasis on the country and team as opposed to individual athletes.
09 June 2009 - European Club Champions Cup 2009, Dubnica nad Váhom, Slovakia
Over the weekend of 30/31 May and 01 June our club travelled and competed at the 'European Club Championships Cup' in Dubnica nad Váhom in Slovakia. Our women’s team, by virtue of their winning the 'Premier National League' last year, represented Ireland at this prestige competition.
09 June 2009 - 100k Fundraiser, Cara Pharmacy, Bundoran on Saturday 11 July 2009
Plans are now at an advanced stage for our big annual fundraiser, the 100k run which this year will take place on Saturday 11 July at the same venue, outside Cara Pharmacy on the Main Street in Bundoran. Co-ordinator Tony Cummins is confident that an even greater effort will take place this year. Watch this space for more information in the lead up to the event.
09 June 2009 - Enniskillen Rotary 10k
On Saturday last, 06 June, three club athletes travelled to the popular Enniskillen Rotary 10k and all came home with new personel bests. With in excess of 1200 athletes and chip timing adding to the glorious sunshine, making this 10k an enjoyable day at the races for all those who travelled. Our three athletes, all in training for the Dublin City Marathon, had super runs and in very competitive categories. Caroline Spratt with 48.34, Eileen Ward with 49.42 and Bernie McNeely with 51.30, were delighted with their runs. Well done girls. Results.pdf
09 June 2009 - Track Competition in Manorhamilton
The final leg in the triangular age group competition took place on the track in Manorhamilton on Thursday 29 May and again all our young athletes were impressive with many wins and good performances. I have no doubt but they will all have gained greatly from the three evenings of competition with athletes from North Sligo AC and North Leitrim AC. Our club finished with the most points.
09 June 2009 - Tir Chonaill Youngsters Excel at Ulster Children’s Games
Our youngsters had a rewarding and enjoyable day at the new Aura Centre, Letterkenny, on Sunday last, 07 June, when the Ulster Children’s Games were held in ideal sunny conditions. This magnificent new facility hosted over five hundred 9 to 13 year olds from across the province in a variety of events from sprints, hurdles, mddle distance, throws-ball throw, shot putt, javelin high and long jump and relays.
06 June 2009 - Outstanding performances from Tír Chonaill Athletes at Irish Schools Finals
The 'Irish Schools Track and Field Finals' have long been recognised as the top underage competition on the Irish sporting calendar. Last Saturday in glorious sunshine, Tullamore Stadium again lived up to the billing with numerous new records and personel best performances being achieved during the day long competition. In the Junior Boys 800metres final, Karl Griffin (Abbey Vocational School) ran a sensational time of 2mins 01.28secs for a silver medal winning performance. The Donegal Town youngster, an all round sportsman and still not fourteen years of age, lay in 3rd position at the bell. The leader, Fitzsimmons (St Josephs, R/rtbridge) led with an opening 57secs time for 400m. With 300m to go Karl moved past Tobin (Clonmel High School) and into 2nd place and began to work on a 12 metres lead. With 150 metres left, Karl had overhauled the Mullingar clubman and the battle for gold would be decided in the final 100 metres. The more experienced Fitzsimmons held on for victory. The result was, First S.Fitzsimons (St.Josephs R/rtbridge) 2.00.72, second place K.Griffin (Abbey Vocational School) 2.01.28 and third S.Tobin (Clonmel High School) 2.02.55. Christopher Doherty (Abbey Vocational School) competing in the Under 17 Intermediate Pole Vault was happy with a best of 3metres. Christopher, still under age for the competition next year, in a closely fought competition where three athletes ended up clearing 3 metres behind medal winners S.Kelly (Cistercian Roscrea) 3.30m, K.Baker (CBC) 3.20m and G.Keogh (CBC Monkstown) 3.20m.
06 June 2009 - Ulster Schools Team
Early this week, the Ulster Schools Selectors included a number of Donegal athletes for the upcoming Under 17 Tailteann Games Inter Pro. This competition takes place in Tullamore on Saturday 27th June and is a final trial for the schools International Team. The Donegal athletes selected are Barry Quigg (Carrick Vocational School) in the High Jump, Christopher Doherty (Abbey Vocational School) in the Pole Vault, Louise Harvey (Abbey Vocational School) in the 80m Hurdles, 300m Hurdles and Relay, Karl Griffin (Abbey Vocational School) in the 800m, Mark Bonnar (St Columba’s) in the Steeplechase, Adam Friel (St Eunans) in the Steeplechase, Mark English (St Eunans) in the 800m, Ruairi Finnigan (St Eunans ) in the 1.500m, Cliona Timoney (Loreto Letterkenny) in the 300m and Ciarn Devlin (Carndonagh Community School) in the Long Jump.
06 June 2009 - Donegal Town 5k - Mizuno/Brian McCormick Grand Prix Series Race 6
Former Youth Olympic silver medal winner, Noel Collins was an impressive winner of the Tír Chonaill promoted and All Sports sponsored 5k Road Race in Donegal Town last night, Friday 5th June. The Omagh teenager broke from the pack in the last 1,000m and came home in a good time of 15mins 36secs. Ciaran Carlin (Finn Valley), M40 filled second place in a time of 15mins 44secs with soccer player and athlete Jonathon Patton (Letterkenny AC), M35 in third place in 15mins 48secs. Results.pdf
04 June 2009 - AAI National League Begins
Just as we are all recovered from our European trip, the AAI National League begins. We are in Antrim for the first round of the 'AAI National League' on Sunday 14th June and either Santry or Athlone for the second round on Sunday 05th July. The final, as usual, will be in Tullamore on Saturday 08th August.
Take care. Paddy
04 June 2009 - The May Edition of Run Direct is Available
I received this email from the online Running Magizine 'Run Direct Ireland'. You can sign-up to receive the magazine in you in-box each month or you can download it from their website. Check it out: May Issue Please encourage all your running friends to log onto www.rundirectireland.com to sign up. We need all the sign-ups we can get. If you’re getting this email directly from Run Direct, you don’t need to sign up, by the way – you’re already signed up. If you’re printing Run Direct, scale it to 97 per cent. You may also want to print in an ink-saving format (Fast or Grayscale, for example) We hope you enjoy. Please support our advertisers if you can. And if there’s running news from your neck of the woods, do send it onto us. Next edition is out on Thursday, June 4th. Special features on Cork Marathon and Flora Women’s Mini-Marathon. Send us your pictures and stories! Happy running From, the Publishers, Run Direct Ireland Email: admin@rundirectireland.com. Email us if you’d like a copy of the April edition sent to you, free of charge. Follow us on Twitter: LiamHoran To unsubscribe, email ‘unsub’ to admin@rundirectireland.com
28 May 2009 - Furey Insurance 5k, Buncrana Race 5
In a fantastic night of racing, Pauric McKinney (Letterkenny AC) made it a hat-trick of Buncrana 5k victories when he out kicked Northern Ireland 5k champion Greg Roberts (City of Derry) by just 1 second to win the race in 15.16. Big brother Collie Roberts (City of Derry) finished third, 4 secs adrift. Finn Valley's Theresa McGloin was also in great form taking a massive 33 seconds off the record of clubmate Clodagh McCool winning the womens race in a flying 17.13. Breege Connolly of North Belfast was 2nd in 17.44 just 6 secs ahead of Inis Eoghain AC's Helena Crossan. Ollie Thomas (Tir Chonaill AC) made the trip to Buncrana and finished with 18.43 on the clock. A great crowd of 171 runners turned out despite the stiff competition from a soccer game in Rome. Well done to all.
27 May 2009 - Sperrin Harriers 5 mile Classic Road Race
I received this email from Tommy Harraghy the other day. Tommy is originally from Ballyshannon and a former Treasurer of Letterkenny AC. He is now Secretary of Sperrin Harriers. Tommy left Letterkenny in October 1984 to move to Belfast and then moved to Magherafelt in 1987 where he has resided since. Tommy's commitment to his sport has been unwavering and he still retains a keen interest in athletics in the north-west. Tommy's club, Sperrin Harriers covers Mid-Ulster including Magherafelt, Cookstown and Dungannon. They run an annual 5 mile Road Race and this year it will be on Friday 7th Aug 2009. The course is seen as a fast course. The race is at Loughry Campus, Cookstown on way into Cookstown from Dungannon. It starts at 7.30pm. Registration is also at Loughry & there will be tea & sandwiches afterwards. Sperrin Harriers are currently working on developing their own web site, but for the time being are storing some information at Sperrin Harriers. Donegal Athletes are promised a special welcome if they can make the trip to Cookstown. "Perhaps you would let me know if any of your athletes would be interested and contact me if you would like more information". Tommy Harraghy harraghy@utvinternet.com
25 May 2009 - Donegal Track and Field Championships in Letterkenny
The new state of the art track at the Aura Centre in Letterkenny was the venue on Saturday last, for the 2009 'Donegal Track and Field Championships'. It was most encouraging to see a good representation of Tír Chonaill athletes present and have some fine performances. On a rain soaked track Kelly McGrory was impressive in winning the Under 14 Girls 80m from club colleague Emma Brady. Both clashed again in the U14 75m hurdles where Kelly again had a narrow victory. Kelly rounded off her day with a victory in the High Jump with a best of 1.30m and a scissors technique with Hannah Campbell and Emma Brady both clearing 1.20m for the minor placings. Louise Harvey finished 2nd to Cranford’s Senior Patricia Boyle in the 100m and in her first ever 100m Hurdles race, clocked 15.4 secs for victory. In the most competitive middle distance race of the day and with a combination of athletes from senior women to under 16 and U18 boys and Masters men we found two young athletes breaking 2 mins and Tír Chonaill’s ever improving Mark McGuinness running a new P.B. time of 2 mins 12.4secs. Mark will be 14 next August, joined the Tír Chonaill club training group in Donegal Town last October and has made remarkable progress. Michelle Harvey also had a run in the 800m and recorded a good 2mins 16.8 secs. Michelle and Louise Harvey will be part of the TIr Chonaill team that travels to Slovakia on Friday for the 'European Club Championships. Marian Van Denbroucke, an exchange French student at the AVS, joined the TC training group after Christmas and was delighted with a 1.30m best in the high jump in wet and windy conditions, good jumping for a 14 year old who has just recently been introduced to the sport.
24 May 2009 - Over 200 Children at AVS Primary Schools Sports
On Monday, 18th May, at the Abbey Vocational School, over two hundred children enjoyed a two hours non stop action packed sports day, which included running, jumping, throwing and relays.
24 May 2009 - European Club Championships, Dubnica, Slovakia
Sunday 31st May 2009 is an historic date for Tír Chonaill Athletics Club. The women from the club won the 'Irish National League' last August and qualified to represent Ireland in the 'European Clubs Cup' in 2009.
24 May 2009 - Donegal Children’s Games, Finn Valley Track
There was further success for our young athletes on Friday Evening last, 22 May 2009, when they competed at the 'Donegal Children’s Games' for athletes in the U-9 to U-13 age groups. The well organised event, hosted by Finn Valley AC, brought many medals to the club, across all age groups, with perhaps the performance of the evening being the club’s 1-2-3 in the U-13 girls 80m, with gold for Kate McGowan, silver to Sarah Timoney and bronze to Eva McMullin with Katie McCafferty a good fifth. Kate also won the long jump with a leap of 3.62m and claimed a bronze in the javelin.
22 May 2009 - Sligo Track and Field Championships at Sligo IT Track
Several of our young athletes and one senior athlete made a very successful trip to the 'Sligo Track and Field Championships' on Wednesday last, to compete as invited guests. With a full programme going from U-9 to master, it was a busy and long evening.
20 May 2009 - Hickey/Clarke/Langan Interfirms 5k, Letterkenny Race4
The fourth rece of the Donegal Athletic Board Mizuno Grand Prix took place in Letterkenny this evening. The 5k was won by Finn Valley's Ciaran Carlin in a time of (15:44), setting an impressive pace. Next home was Colm Roberts (15:48) followed by Ivan Toner (16:08) in third place. First lady home was Teresa McGloin of Finn Valley (17:25) with Caitriona McGranaghan following in a time of 18:29. Kay Byrne (Finn Valley) finished third in (18:47). A smaller than usual number of our athletes travelled to Letterkenny. Ollie Thomas, after a lengthy spell of injury made a return appearance and was first club person across the line in a time of 18:44. Next up was Vera Haughey with a very good 21:22 on the clock. Club stalwart Jackie Harvey, showing some fine form stormed home in 22:37 and completing the club’s contingent was Rose McCauley, getting some early season practice on the road returned a good 23:40 on the clock. Well done all. Results.pdf L-R: Rose McCauley, Vera Haughey, Ollie Thomas & Jackie Harvey. View Pics
19 May 2009 - AAI Games, Athlone
Three club athletes were in action at the 'AAI Games' at the impressive new facility in Athlone on Sunday afternoon last, 17 May 2009. Michelle Harvey, after a cautious opening few laps, pushed on to win in a decent 4.44.6 from Lisa Manning of Raheny Shamrocks. In the triple jump, there was disappointment for Donegal record holder and national champion Mary McLoone, who having difficulty with her run up, when she failed to register a jump. Ethna McLoone, who was consistent on the runway, took an excellent second place in this event with a leap 9.75m for the silver medal. Good to see the girls warming up with some good competition before the club depart for the European club championships in Slovakia at the end of the month.
16 May 2009 - Ulster Schools Track and Field Finals
The Antrim Forum on Friday Evening and Saturday attracted record crowds for the annual 'Ulster Schools Track and Field Finals'. Over 5,000 competitors, coaches and spectators, representing 140 schools enjoyed a competitive days athletics where representing your school, gaining a podium position and qualification for the 'All Ireland Schools Finals' in two weeks time, were the main objectives. There were some excellent performances, but the weather was a problem with rain and gusting wind in the morning and sunshine in the evening making it most challenging for the athletes and officials.
16 May 2009 - Culdaff 5k Race3
The third annual Culdaff 5k and juvenile 1 mile road races took place on Friday last, 15th May. The 5k was won by City of Derry's Greg Roberts in a time of 15:31, setting an impressive new record for the course. Next home was Ivan Toner of Letterkenny AC (15:59) followed by Dominic Bonner (V45; 16:21) in third place. First lady home was Rosemary Bogle of Finn Valley (V45; 19;59) with Inishowen AC's Teresa Doherty following in a time of 20:22. Bernie Ryan (V45; City of Derry) finished third in 23:01. Results.pdf Pictures are posted on the internet complements of Inishowen AC. View Pics
13 May 2009 - New Sligo Athletics Club Link
Just received the link from our neighbours at 'Sligo Athletics Club' to there website which is another great resourse and source of information for athletics in the North-West. There will be 'event result postings' and other features of interest and the website will be constantly updated. All at Tír Chonaill AC wish them well with their website. Check it out http://www.sligoac.blogspot.com/
10 May 2009 - Mizuno Donegal Grand Prix Fixture List
Mizuno Donegal Grand Prix Fixture List.pdf
10 May 2009 - PJ Branley Memorial 5k, Friday 08 May 2009, Ballyshannon Race2
09 May 2009 - Good Donegal Performances at Ulster Schools District Championships
South Donegal Schools athletes from Carrick Vocational, Killybegs Vocational, Abbey Vocational and Scoil Colmcille had a number of outstanding performances when the 'Ulster District Championships' took place at the Antrim Forum on Friday last. Qualification for next Saturdays 'Ulster Finals' was the goal when representatives from over forty schools from Cavan, Fermangh, Tyrone and South Donegal took part in a day long competition.
05 May 2009 - North West 10k, Letterkenny, Sunday 03 May 2009 Race1
A smaller than usual number of our athletes travelled to the opening race of the Donegal Athletic Board’s Grand prix series, the North West 10k charity run/walk, which took place in Letterkenny on Sunday last. Making a welcome return to racing, the evergreen Richard McCarthy was first club person across the line in a super 25th place overall and fifth in a very competitive category. Richard clocked a great 38.02 for the 10k distance. Next up was Ballyshannon athlete James Bradshaw in 71st place overall with a good 41.56 on the clock. Club stalwart Marie Rooney, who has been showing some fine form of late, took a good second place in her category with 44.08, a big improvement fro her Carney outing. Completing the club’s contingent was Vera Haughey, making her seasonal debut on the road with a good 47.58 on the clock. Well done all. Results.pdf
03 May 2009 - John Shields leads High Jump Workshops in Letterkenny
Fifteen coaches and an invited number of athletes from Letterkenny, Innishowen, Finn Valley, Tír Chonaill, Sliabh Liag and Clones athletics clubs enjoyed two High-Jump workshops at Letterkenny's new athletics track yesterday. During a four hours period, John Shields, former High Jump National Coach making a very welcome return visit to the North West, led workshops for the 'beginner coach/athletes' and 'for the developing athletes'. A sincere thank you to Donegal County Athletics Board, promoters of the event and Letterkenny Athletics Club who facilitated the workshops.
01 May 2009 - New Club 'Training/Competition Facility' at the Abbey Vocational School
The new Club 'Training/Competition Facility' at the Abbey Vocational School is nearing completion. The 400 metres walking/jogging/running track plus synthetic surfaces for sprinting, hurdling, long Jump, high jump, triple jump, pole vault and the throwing circles/cages for shotput, discus and hammer throwing, makes this new development very exciting and one that gives Tír Chonaill AC much to be proud off as we move forward in encouraging and coaching all aspects of athletics. Club members Davy Doherty and Paul O'Gara, who are two of the prime movers behind the development, visited the site recently and inspected the progress. View Pics
28 Apr 2009 - Sligo Fit4Life 8k
Three club athletes braved some atrocious weather conditions to compete at the 'Sligo Fit4life 8k' on Sunday afternoon last, 26 April 2009 and all three come back with personnel bests. With over 120 entrants, between runners and walkers, heading out into a driving rain on Ash Lane, it was not a day for the faint hearted. Not for the first time this year, and recording an improvement of more than two minutes on the corresponding race last year, Ann Donoghue, Bernie McNeely were again among the prize winners. Ann, with a gutsy run and 40.58 on the clock, took a great second place in her category behind former marathon champion Lucy Brennan, while Bernie, clocking a super 42.42 took an excellent third place in her category. Not to be outdone, Eileen, with her best race to date this road season, clocked a good 44.30, with her first attempt at the distance. Well done girls. Photo L-R: Bernie McNeely, Eileen Ward & Ann Donoghue.
26 Apr 2009 - Inter Club Competition, Grange Track, Co Sligo
Tír Chonaill AC, North Sligo AC, North Leitrim AC and Sligo AC were involved in competition at the Grange Track, Co. Sligo on Tuesday 21 April 2009. Several of our younger athletes travelled to the Grange track for a triangular competition with the local North Sligo AC and North Leitrim AC. The competition proved to be very successful and good a early season opener for the outdoor Track and Field season. There were many notable performances from our young athletes, from the U-9 to the O13, with several discovering new events for the first time. In the long jump and javelin, our athletes were particularly impressive, demonstrating great skill and determination, for so early in the season. A second evening of competition is scheduled for Thursday 14 May in Donegal Town. Well done to all our athletes and a big thank you to our club officials, without whom the competition would not have taken place.
14 Apr 2009 - McDonalds Little Athletics Jamboree Agility Challenge
Tír Chonaill AC, who has very successful weekly athletics programmes in operation, for our little athletes, at three training locations, recently ran the McDonalds Agility Challenge. Sixty five young athletes successfully completed the triathlon challenge of ‘speed bounce’, ‘standing long jump’ and ‘balance test’. Points were awarded for performance and each child received one of six awards depending on a point’s total. The awards were presented to the young athletes at a training session last week.
14 Apr 2009 - Easter Camp Up and Running
Over 100 enthusiastic youngsters attended the annual club 'multi sport camp' organised at the Abbey Vocational School on Tues, Wed and Thurs of this week. A sincere thank you to the numerous club Coaches/Members, Athletes and Leaders who volunteered to assist during the three days. All the proceeds from the camp go towards the new multi sports complex being developed at the Abbey Vocational School.
14 Apr 2009 - European Club Competition, Dubnica, Slovakia, Sunday 31 May 2009
Plans are now at an advanced stage for the club’s trip to compete at the European Club Competition. The squad will travel out to Slovakia on Friday 29 May and return on Monday 01 June. More details will be released at a later stage.
14 Apr 2009 - Carney Lisadell 10k, Easter Monday 13 April 2009
Twelve club athletes travelled to quaint North Sligo village of Carney on Easter Monday to take part in the popular Carney Lisadell 10k. Again this well organised race on a demanding course was well supported with all proceeds this year going to Special Olympics. There were several fine performances, category victories and personnel bests recorded by our athletes. Pride of place must go to our master women athletes, who between them brought home three category prizes. Club stalwart and Treasurer Marie Rooney, showing a good return to form took a great third place in the V2/3 category with 44.23 on the clock. Following on from this we saw Ann Donoghue break the 50 minute barrier for the first time with a superb 49.19 on the clock, to take first place in the V4 category and a three minute plus improvement on her run at the same venue last Easter. Bernie McNeely, currently one of the most improving athletes at the club, recorded another huge personnel best when with 51.40 on the clock and taking second place in her V4 category. All three athletes were delighted at being presented with their prizes by European bronze medallist Mary Cullen. Great runs were also had by Brenda Morris with 46.40; Caroline Spratt with 49.05; Olivia Murphy with 50.12 and Eileen Ward with 56.31. Johnathon Kennedy was our first man across the line with a good 39.06 on the clock followed by Canice Nicholas with 44.43; Niall Clancy with 44.58 and a good personnel best, his second in as many weeks and showing no signs of fatigue after his exertions at a Dualathon last weekend. Next came Paddy Donoghue, returning to racing after an eighteen month layoff following knee surgery, and delighted with his 45.07. Tony Cummins, recovered from his Ultra marathon success at the Connemara Ultra was pleased with his 51.25.
14 Apr 2009 - Easter Sunday 3k, Letterkenny, 12 April 2009
Two club athletes took part in the Easter Sunday 3k in Letterkenny, with Richard McCarthy clocking a fine 10.39 and Rose McCauley pleased with her 13.29.
06 Apr 2009 - Successful two weeks for Tír Chonaill AC Junior Athletes
Over the past two weekends, in Nenagh and Magherafelt, Tír Chonaill's young athletes had a remarkable amount of success. Medal summary is as follows: Gold x 3, the U13 Girls Relay Team of Sarah Timoney, Kate McGowan, Eva McMulan, Ruth Gillespie and Katie McCafferty, the U14 Girls Relay Team of Emma Brady, Karen Tracey, Kate McGowan, Kelly McGrory and Sarah Timoney, and the U17 Girls 60m Hurdles - Louise Harvey. Silver x 2: the U15 Boys 800m - Karl Griffin and the U13 Girls 60m Hurdles - Kate McGowan. Bronze x 1: the U14 Girls Hurdles - Kelly McGrory. Fourth Place Finishes x 2: the U14 Girls Hurdles - Emma Brady and the U14 Girls 60m - Kelly McGrory. Congratulations to all our young athletes and to the club's coaches and parents who supported them over the past two weekends. Well done all. Magherafelt Results.pdf
05 Apr 2009 - European Clubs
The Tír Chonaill Athletics Club were recently informed that the European Clubs will be held in Slovakia on Sunday 31st May 2009. The clubs women’s team qualified to represent Ireland when they won the National League in August 2008 at Tullamore. A sub committee is busy a the moment organizing funding/flights/team selection etc. In addition to the competing squad a number of places have been reserved for supporters as the club breaks new ground on the competitive front.
05 Apr 2009 - Noel Thomas in Fortis Rotterdam Marathon
Noel Thomas, well known as one of Tír Chonaill AC's master athletes, completed today's Rotterdam Marathon in a time of 2:52:28. Noel's time for the marathon is remarkable as he was involved in a cycling training accident two years ago, in which he collided with a jeep while training for the Mullaghmore Triathlon. The accident resulted in serious neck and shoulder injury, for which he was hospitalised. After many months of physiotherapy and a determination to get running again, he was soon back, with a new goal. Noel is delighted with his run in Rotterdam and will spend the rest of the week with his family and some friends in Rotterdam before returning home. Noel's splits breakdown as follows: 5 Kilometer 20:39 (20:39), 10 Kilometer 40:41 (20:02), 15 Kilometer 1:00:56 (20:15), 20 Kilometer 1:21:04 (20:08), Half marathon 1:25:45, 25 Kilometer 1:41:37 (20:33), 30 Kilometer 2:02:07 (20:30), 35 Kilometer 2:22:37 (20:30), 40 Kilometer 2:43:23 (20:46). Well done Noel. Youtube link shows Noel (5718) finishing.
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05 Apr 2009 - Tír Chonaill AC Junior Athletes Compete Magnificently Once Again
Over the past two weekends, in Nenagh and Magherafelt, Tír Chonaill's young athletes competed magnificently in a variety of disciplines. Following on last weekends outstanding performances in Nenagh where Emma Brady finished 4th in the Under 14 Girls 60m Hurdles, Kelly McGrory, won bronze in the Under 14 60m hurdles and finished 4th in the 60m sprint final, Kate McGowan took silver in the Under 13 Girls 60m Hurdles, only .01 secs separated her and the winner and Louise Harvey, won the Under 17 60hurdles in an impressive time of 9.22secs, we headed to Magherafelt yesterday morning for Part 2 of the championships.
04 Apr 2009 - All Irelands Indoors in Magherafelt
Congratulations to Karl Griffin who ran a magnificent 800m race today at the 'All Irelands Indoors in Magherafelt'. In the Boys Under 15 final he recorded a time of 2mins 7.79 secs for 2nd place in a race where the old record of 2mins 6.8secs was beaten by Mullingar man Fitzsimmons, time 2mins 3secs. This was only Karls 2nd ever 800m, the first was in the Odyssey Belfast in February, when winning the Ulster title and qualifying for today's National final. Other notable Donegal performances in Magherafelt today included Ruairi Finnigan (LAC) 1st in the U16 800m, Mark English (LAC) 1st U17 800m, Ciaran OLeime (Sl Liag) 3rd U19 shot putt and Paul Donovan (Sl Liag) 3rd U19 HighJump. View Pics
30 Mar 2009 - National Indoor Finals, Nenagh
Over the two days of last weekend 28/29 March 2009, the club had four athletes compete at the 'All Ireland Juvenile Championships Finals' at the Nenagh Indoor Arena where the full set of medals were won. One gold, one silver, two bronze and a close fourth place came from outstanding performances by Louise Harvey, Kate McGowan, Kelly McGroary and Emma Brady.
23 Mar 2009 - Connemara Ultra Marathon
On Sunday, 22nd March it was the turn of our endurance men, who after spending Saturday along the half marathon route in Omagh supporting the club’s athletes, headed for the wild beauty of Connemara to take part in the Ultra marathon. Vinny Duffy and Tony Cummins, who have been logging severe miles along the picturesque shore of Lough Melvin in recent weeks, saw the hard work rewarded with excellent performances. Vinny with 6.16.58 and Tony with 6.57.16 on the clock were both delighted with their performance. Both men were using the Ultra distance as part of their preparation for the European Ironman that rakes place in Austria in July this year. Well done lads.
23 Mar 2009 - 2009 Aviva UK Sportshall Finals, Birmingham
Five club juveniles were in Birmingham over the weekend competing on the Donegal U-13 girls and boys Sportshall teams at the UK finals. The girl’s team, which included club athletes Kate McGowan, Karen Tracey, Kelly McGrory and Emma Brady, finished in a brilliant fourth place, just missing out on medals, with 1078 points. The boy’s team that included Jamie Brennan of Bundoran finished a very creditable sixth on 1037 points. Well done all.
23 Mar 2009 - Omagh Half Marathon
The club had a large representation at the first major road race of the season, the Omagh Half Marathon, which took place on Saturday last on a mild and sometimes warm day, around the environs of Omagh Town. On the 20th running of the race, it was estimated that up to 1800 took part between the 4 mile run and the half marathon, with colour and sunshine the order of the day.
23 Mar 2009 - Louise Harvey honoured at Athletics Awards Function
On Saturday night last in the Arklow Bay Hotel, club athlete Louise Harvey was presented with the AAI National Juvenile Star Award as the outstanding juvenile athlete in Donegal. The awards are based on achievements over the full season, through cross country, indoor competitions and track and field. The talented Louise has been to the forefront of juvenile athletics in Donegal, Ulster/NI and at National level over the past few years, winning medals across a range of disciplines, from high jump and relays to 300m hurdles, at county, provincial and national level. Congratulations Louise.
17 Mar 2009 - Donegal Teams to compete in Aviva UK Sportshall Finals
Five club juveniles were in Birmingham over the weekend competing on the Donegal U-13 girls and boys Sportshall teams at the UK finals. The girl’s team, which included club athletes Kate McGowan, Karen Tracey, Kelly McGrory and Emma Brady, finished in a brilliant fourth place, just missing out on medals, with 1078 points. The boy’s team that included Jamie Brennan of Bundoran finished a very creditable sixth on 1037 points. Well done all.
16 Mar 2009 - Castlederg Charity 5k Paula’s Run
Jackie Harvey, after a full day on her feet in Magherafelt on Saturday took part in the Charity 5k in Castlederg on the Sunday 15 March, where up to 1000 thronged the streets. Well done Jackie.
16 Mar 2009 - Ulster/NI Age Group Championships, Magherafelt Indoor Arena
The second round of the 'Ulster/NI Indoor Championships' was held on Saturday last at the new indoor arena in Magherafelt and once again, success came the way of the next generation of club athletes.
09 Mar 2009 - Ulster Sportshall Finals, Magherafelt
Magherafelt’s new indoor area, locally known as Meadowbank, was the venue last Thursday for the 'Ulster Under 13 and 15 Sportshall Finals'. Two weeks ago, four Donegal Teams qualified for this prestigious event. The attraction for the winning team in all four categories is to represent Ulster in the British Finals on Saturday 21st March in Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre.
02 Mar 2009 - Mullaghmore Sailing Club Tri Duathlon
Three club members competed at the first Duathlon of the season held recently in Mullaghmore. Expertly organised by the MSC (Mullaghmore Sailing Club) Tri club and, the first in a series of three was a great success. The winner, Ballyshannon man Ciaran Mulligan, trains with the Bundoran/Ballyshannon training group, is a regular on the tri scene and an accomplished athlete in his own right. Ciaran’s winning time was 61.22 for the 2.5k run – 22k cycle – 2.5k run. Niall Clancy finished in a creditable eight place with 71.11 on the clock while Olivia Murphy was first woman home in a time of 77.40. The next in the series take place on Saturday 7th March with a 12:00 noon start. Registration at the Mullaghmore Sailing Club House from 11.30am. More details can be had by contacting 087 2291300. Pictured, winner, Ballyshannon man Ciaran Mulligan.
22 Feb 2009 - Mary McLoone at Celtic Cup International, Cardiff Indoor Arena
Senior Athlete and Donegal Record Holder, Mary McLoone was away on International duty again this weekend when she competed as part of the Irish Team at the Celtic Cup competition at the Cardiff Indoor arena. Going in her best event the triple jump Mary had a magnificent series of jumps, all over the 12m mark with a best of 12.54m to take first place and maximum points for the team. Mary also guested in the long jump and despite a below par performance took fourth place with a best leap of 5.40m. Congratulations and well done again Mary.
21 Feb 2009 - Donegal Athletic Board's Winter Track & Field Meeting, Letterkenny
Several club athletes travelled to the Danny McDaid track in Letterkenny on Saturday for the third day of the winter track and field competition. A relaxed competition, the event affords our young athletes the opportunity to gain experience at a competition level. All our athletes were encouraged to try out as many of the events as they could and all did. In the 60m Kelly McGrory and Christopher Doherty clocked 8.30secs, while Kate McGowan (8.40), Emma Brady (8.70) and Lisa Greene (9.00) were all impressive. Sarah Timoney, Jamie Brennan, Katie McCafferty, Conor Dawson, Kelsie Warren, Orla Gillespie and Ruby Hurst also competed in the 60m. Christopher had the fastest time of the day in the 1000m with 3.13.40 while Rose McCauley ran a good 4.00.60 for the same distance. In the 300m there were fine runs from Kelly (47.60), Jamie (48.60) and also from Emma, Sarah, Katie, Ruby Orla and Kelsie. Despite some difficulty with run ups, everyone competed and did well in the long jump with Emma, Kelly, Kate, Katie and Sarah all over the 3m mark. Christopher with 4.91m was best in the boy’s long jump with Jamie in third with a decent 3.96m. Orla, Kate, Emma and Kelly took part in the shot, while Emma, Kelly, Kate, Conor and Jamie competed in the high jump. All in all it was a busy day for these dedicated athletes and well done to all. Thank you to those parents who travelled and assisted on the day, your help is much appreciated.Results.pdf
13 Feb 2009 - Mary McLoone Impresses at National Indoor Championships
Last weekend, Tír Chonaill’s Mary McLoone, continued her successful Indoor season with two more outstanding performances, in the Long Jump and Triple Jump, at the National Indoor Championships, in the well appointed Odyssey Indoor Arena, Belfast.
13 Feb 2009 - Tir Chonaill Juveniles excel in the Odyssey Arena
Held in conjunction with the prestigious 'Irish Senior Indoor Championships', Part 1 of the 'Ulster/Northern Ireland Indoor Juvenile Championships' proved to be a happy hunting ground for the youngsters of Tír Conaill AC, on Saturday and Sunday last.
10 Feb 2009 - West Ulster Sportshall Finals
Omagh’s Leisure Centre, for three hours today was a hive of noise, activity and no small amount of athletics excellence when the West Ulster Boys and Girls Under 13 and 15 finals were ran off very professionally by Barrie Holmes and his band of dedicated helpers.
04 Feb 2009 - Tír Chonaill Athletes win Scottish Titles
Tir Chonaill’s Mary McLoone, Michelle Harvey and the clubs under 13 girls relay team made a successful trip to the 'Scottish Senior Championships and Juvenile Relays' in the Kelvin Hall, Glasgow last weekend.
31 Jan 2009 - Exciting Donegal Schools Sportshall Finals
The Donegal '1st Year Schools Finals' held in the Abbey Vocational Gymnasium on Friday 29th January proved once again to be very exciting and closely contested. Following two hours of very well organised competition the host, Abbey Vocational School, came out on top in both Girls and Boys.
25 Jan 2009 - AAI Indoor Games Nenagh Indoor Arena
There was double joy for Mary McLoone at the AAI Indoor Games at the Nenagh Indoor Arena on Sunday last, when with some amazing jumping she captured gold in both horizontal jumps. Having watched her National Junior Triple Jump Record fall on the Saturday to Westport's Caoimhe King with an 11.97m leap, it was satisfying for Mary to set a new county best on the Sunday in the long jump with a winning leap of 6.11m, a huge personnel best for the talented school teacher. With a superb series of leaps, 5.91m in the first round, 6.11m in the second, 6.04m in the third and 5.96m in the last, all would have been good enough to win the competition. A little later in the afternoon, Mary went to the board in the triple jump and with a huge opening leap of 12.54m, her only jump, duly won the competition. Sister Ethna was a good fourth in the same competition with a solid 10.17m best jump. At about the same time Michelle Harvey was locked in battle in the women’s 1000m, eventually taking a good second place in a good 3.03.07. All three girls will now concentrate on the 'AAI National Indoor Championships' that take place in the Odyssey Arena in Belfast on the weekend of 07/08 February.
24 Jan 2009 - Tír Chonaill AC presentation to Ozanam House Bundoran
Tír Chonaill Athletic Club presented the proceeds from their recent inaugural New Year’s Day 8k run/walk to the local St Vincent de Paul to help towards their fundraising for Ozanam House in Bundoran. Making the presentation club chairman Paddy Donoghue said that this was the club’s first New Year’s Day 8k run/walk and that the success of the this year’s event means that the club are planning on making it an annual event. He also pledged that going forward; the proceeds would continue to be given to the local St Vincent de Paul. Accepting the cheque on behalf of the fundraising committee for Ozanam House, John Campbell thanked the club for their generous gesture and said that the Vincent de Paul were grateful to Tír Chonaill AC for thinking of them.
21 Jan 2009 - AAI International Booklet 2009
AAI International Booklet 2009.pdf
17 Jan 2009 - Irish Juvenile Indoor multi events in Nenagh
The Irish Juvenile Indoor Multi events on Sunday last at Nenagh had one of the largest entries ever, some excellent individual performances and was held on one of the bleakest and coldest days of the winter. Louise Harvey, with good individual performances in the hurdles, joint first with 9.6secs, and victory in 800m with 2.35.8 on the clock, coupled with solid results in the long and high jump and the shot, giving her a points total of 2552 for a well deserved bronze medal in the U-18 girls competition. Competing in the combined events for the first time were U-14 girls Emma Brady and Kelly McGrory. Both had good steady performances over the five events with Emma gaining 1848 points for ninth place while Kelly with 1823 points took eleventh, from twenty finishers. Christopher Doherty, also a first timer at the combined events finished with a points total of 2157 for eight place in the U-16 boys event. All four athletes will have gained valuable experience from the competition, with team coach David Doherty pleased with their performances. Well done all.
17 Jan 2009 - Ulster/NI Master Cross Country, Stormont Estate, Belfast
At Stormont Estate in some of the worst conditions ever witnessed, our master athletes performed heroically, with some exceptional running. Paul Ward led the men with a brave run, finishing in the top fifteen.
17 Jan 2009 - Sportshall Junior Athletics Carndonag
In Carndonagh, our Sportshall Teams produced another fine day’s athletics to leave the club in a strong position going into the final round, which takes place on Saturday 31 January in Donegal Town. Athletes who travelled and competed were, in the 00/99 age group: Mathew and Rebecca Duffy, Megan and Cian McEniff, Paul Murphy, Mary Flora Scott, Maeve Rooney, Kelsie Warren, Thomas McGowan, Philip Quinn, Oisin Reid and Edward Britton. The team in the age group 97/98 was as follows: Ruth Gillespie, Ciara Doogan, Katie Hoade, Grace Nolan, Katie and Amiee McCafferty, Orla and Brendan Gillespie, Oisin Rooney, Adam Brennan, Daire Reilly, Megan McGee, Brendan Oats and Timmy Govorov. Very well done all.
13 Jan 2009 - Success at AAI Master Indoor Championships, Nenagh
Club athletes Jackie Harvey and Paul Ward competed with great success at the 'AAI Master Indoor Track and Field Championships' in Nenagh on Sunday. Jackie, going in the 400m faced a tough challenge and finished a good second while later in the day she took a superb gold in the 800m with a very fine 2.46 on the clock. Later in the evening at 4.35pm Ballyshannon's Paul Ward competed in the 1500m. Moving down from the 3000m, at which he took a medal at last year's championships, Paul was confident of a good showing and duly obliged with an excellent second place and silver medal with 4.29 on the clock. Congratulations and well done both.
11 Jan 2009 - David Wilson in Chicago
David Wilson, a former Junior International and Collegiate Athlete, who made his home in the US after completing an athletic scholarship there, was in scintillating form during the 2008 racing season in his home town of Chicago. With a compelling series of races over varies distances from 5k to10 miles, David won the series outright and also was the winner of the master 35-39 age category, after winning all his category races.
11 Jan 2009 - Successful AAI Indoor Relays, Nenagh
There was a superb performance from our athletes at the 'AAI Indoor Relays' in Nenagh, yesterday Saturday, with several good victories.
08 Jan 2009 - National Premier League Cup at juvenile training night at the Abbey Vocational
The Tír Chonaill Womens Team made their own piece of history in July 2008 when they won the National Premier League in Tullamore. The squad will represent Ireland in the European Clubs Champiobships in May 2009. On Thursday night last three members of the team Michelle Harvey, Kitty O'Kennedy, Aoife O'Connor and Team Manager Jackie Harvey brought the cup along to the juvenile training night at the Abbey Vocational School where all received a warm round of applause and later posed for photographs with the prestigious cup.
04 Jan 2009 - Letterkenny Athletic Club New Year 3k Fun Run
Four club athletes made the journey on Sunday last to the Letterkenny AC New Year 3k fun run. Paul Ward, preparing for the master indoor championships next weekend, was pleased with a solid 9.32 for the 3k distance, taking first in his category and fourth overall. Michelle Harvey with 10.11 on the clock took the first women prize and was 19th overall, while Jackie Harvey with 12.31 and Vera Haughey with 12.50 both had good runs. Results.pdf
02 Jan 2009 - All Sports, Donegal Town presentation to Young Athletes
Gareth Britton of All Sports, Donegal Town presenting the 'Overall 2008 Young Athlete of the year Awards' to Jarlath Ruane and Louise Harvey. Both athletes were voted top underage male and female athletes for 2008, at the recent 'Tír Chonaill Awards Night' in the Central Hotel Donegal Town.
01 Jan 2009 - Tír Chonaill AC New Year’s Day 8k, Bundoran
The club’s New Year’s Day 8k run/walk proved to be a great success with over 100 athletes, between runners and walkers turning out on what must surely be the coldest day of the winter.