Gearing up for the National Race Walking Championships this weekend

The Irish Life Health National Race Walking Championships, on the road of St. Annes Park Raheny this Saturday 8th December, promises to be one of the best ever.

With National medals up for grabs for Men over 20km and 30km and Women over 20 km, all races are expected to be close contests.

Kate Veale will go off as clear favourite in the women's race, but the former world youth champion may not have it all her own way. Sinead and Niamh O’Conner are formidable Juniors who both will debut in the 20 km distance.

Veronica Burke has also gained valuable experience and will be pressing hard for a National medal.

The men’s races will be equally exciting as Alex Wright, fresh from his Endurance Athlete of the year award, will be going all out to retain his National title. Brendan Boyce will be determined to lay down a marker for 2019. However, the dark horse could be Westport athlete Cian McManamon, who has been progressing every year and has a solid winter training behind him.

A feature of all races will be the inclusion of a contingent of overseas athletes who will be competing as guests. This includes London Olympic Silver Medalist Eric Barando from Guatemala. Spain, Croatia, Germany and England will also be represented.

Juvenile, Junior and Master athletes will also race at the venue while the Senior races are taking place.

It all promises to be a great day of Race Walking. Many thanks to Raheny Shamrocks Athletic Club who will host the event and to Pat Hooper to will prepare the course for a day of racing.

Entry List

TBC

Irish Life Health National Championships Sponsor

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