This year sees the 33rd running of the Ballycotton ‘10’ road race which takes place on Sunday March 21st. Over 3,300 entries were received before Christmas with unfortunately another 700-800 having to be returned as the race once again was over-subscribed.

It’s certainly a long way from the inaugural ten-mile race back in March 1978 when 31 runners, all men, took part with Richard Crowley of St Finbarr’s the winner in a time of 50:22.

Boasting course records of 47:00 (Gary Staines) and 55:28 (Marian Sutton), this year should see a competitive race up front with the likes of National 10km champion Sean Connolly (second last year to Vinny Mulvey), Brian Maher, Mick Clohisey, Brian MacMahon all entered with the possibility of Mark Kenneally also joining the line-up.

Race holder Pauline Curley heads the women’s race along with National Half-Marathon holder Caitriona Jennings, Siobhan O’Doherty, Barbara Sanchez and Rhona Lynch already confirmed.

Most of the members of the ‘Marathon Mission’ squad will be taking part and as an incentive this year the organisers are offering a cash bonus of €200 if the winner breaks 48:00 (men) or 56:30 (women). This will be in addition to the first prize of €500. Second and third prizes (men and women) are €300 and €200 respectively.