Wright’s close walk in the park

Wright edges McManamon in St Anne's

Alex Wright (Leevale) and Veronica Burke (Ballinasloe) came out on top at the Irish Life Health National 20km Race Walk Championships in St Anne’s Park, Raheny today (December 9).

Wright, who competed in the Olympics in Rio, had to hold off his international compatriot Cian McManamon (Westport) in a close battle in 1:32:05 to 1:32:32. Full results are HERE

The competitors, and officials, braved the cold weather as they walked up and down the picturesque tree-lined main avenue in St Anne’s Park.

It was an equally close battle in the women’s race with Veronica Burke (Ballinasloe and District) walking to gold in 1:47:10, just ahead of Kate Veale (West Waterford) in second in 1:47:40 – fine margins over such a long distance.

There were also junior and juvenile events on over varying distances. Orlaith O’Donoghue (Sligo) actually competed over 20km and was first junior in 2:03:54 while Eva O’Donoghue (Sligo) was first junior over 5km in 27:19.

David Kenny (Farranfore Maine) was the first junior man over 10km in 49:03. Gearoid McMahon (Shannon) was first junior man over 5km in 23:18.

Great credit must go to Raheny Shamrock and all the officials who hosted the event alongside the athletes who made it an enjoyable event.