Parkrun 200 for Eileen

76-year-old Eileen Kenny, from Athlone, completed her 200th parkrun at the weekend in Mountlucas parkrun in Offaly.

Originally from Mount Temple, Eileen lives in Athlone after moving back to Westmeath from Cork. Usually a regular of Athlone RSC parkrun, she opted for a change of scenery to mark the special milestone. Eileen is well known for her running achievements.

Eileen currently holds the Irish O70s record in outdoor track for 800m, 3000m and 5000m. She also holds the road race record in her age category for 5km and 10km. She has represented Ireland in international competitions on several occasions. Earlier this year, Eileen was a member of the 4x400m relay team which shattered a world record during an indoor race meeting at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin. Eileen, alongside her teammates, crossed the finish line in a time of 7.20.14, the quartet taking over a minute off the previous record of 8.42.71 which was set in the USA in 2022.

Speaking after her 200th parkrun, Eileen spoke about the importance of keeping active: "It's so important for us all to keep active and moving every day. Even in Winter when it's harder to be motivated, you feel energised after."

Eileen maintains a diverse fitness regime which includes cycling, running, cross training and aqua aerobics.

She spoke about her enjoyment of training on grass: "It's harder training but easier on your body in the long term. And then when you run a race on the road it feels much easier."

She also credited hill training to her high level of fitness and phenomenal running speed. A massive well done to Eileen from all at Mountlucas parkrun.

Glen Mangan from Edenderry completed his 25th parkrun on the same day and Marion Dillon completed her 50th parkrun. Well done to both Glen and Marion from all at Mountlucas parkrun.

Mountlucas parkrun takes place at Bord na Móna Mountlucas windfarm every Saturday morning at 9.30am sharp. There's something for everyone at Mountlucas parkrun whether you want to walk, run, volunteer or just meet new people. For more information see http://parkrun.ie/mountlucas