Athlone AC announce date for 2024 half marathon

Athlone Athletics Club will again host half marathon and 10km races this year, with the event scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 22.

Entries will open this coming Monday, April 1 (this is not an April Fools' joke!) at 12pm on Pop Up Races at the following link - https://www.popupraces.ie/race/athlone-ac-half-marathon-10k-2024/

Last year's inaugural event proved highly successful with renowned local runner Mick Fogarty winning the half marathon men's race in 1.11.04, while the 10km race was won by John Travers in 29.50. Such superb times added lustre to the occasion, while there was a huge volunteer effort from Athlone AC members in terms of acting as marshals and helpers.

In the women's half marathon race, Monika De Almeida from host club Athlone AC emerged as the winner, with Aine O’Reilly winning the 10km race.

The 2023 event - which started and finished at the TUS campus running track - was a fitting tribute to the late Brian Garvey, to whom the team trophy was dedicated. With David Watson and Kieran Shine among those to run strongly, Athlone AC won the men’s team event.

Athlone AC said it was "delighted" to announce that it will hold the race again this year.

"The event was a huge success last year and much of that was down to the huge amount of support our club members gave as volunteers on the day. Thank you to everyone who gave their time, it was much appreciated," said a club spokesperson.

"This year we'll again be looking for volunteers for race day. More details will follow on how to get involved as preparation for the race continues, but if you already know you'd like to get involved, please let a member of the committee know."