The Laois Even Ages and Novice Cross Country Championships

The Cross-Country calendar began in earnest on Sunday 28th September with St Abban’s A.C hosting the Even Ages and Novice Cross Country Championships. The event was held adjacent to last year’s course, once again on the land kindly provided by Ian McDonald. While the area has seen great change in recent years with a new school and housing development, it’s the same land that held National Intermediate and National Senior Cross Country events in the early 80’s.

Sunday’s events began with an open race for young Cross Country enthusiasts. This was followed by the first Championship event the Girls U10 race. Numbers were high in the younger age groups with St Abbans particularly strong on home ground. St Abban’s claimed gold and silver in both the Boys and Girls U10 team events. The Girls U12 won gold and bronze, while the boys won team gold and silver medals. In the U14 events, the girls claimed gold and bronze team medals while the boys won gold and silver team prizes. Although numbers usually get smaller in the older age groups the girls U16 team battle was one of the tightest of the day with only 6 points separating all 3 teams. St Michael’s took team honours, with St Abbans in 2nd and Oughaval in 3rd. St Abbans were back on top in the U18 girls and Novice ladies who were ran together. The host club also won the U18 boys, but were pipped for top honours in the Novice Men by Oughaval who won by 5 points. Overall, 12 races were contested on the day, with St Abbans claiming team gold medals in all but 2 events. Great credit must go to all of the club’s athletes, coaches and the parents who help making these events such a success. A huge thank you also to Ben and his team of volunteers who prepared the course for Sunday’s event.
Finally a thank you to the event sponsors; Ger Kelly Plumbing, 50 Shades Hair Salon and Danny Bolton. Make sure to keep these local businesses in mind if you require such services. Day 2 of the Laois Cross Country Championships will take place in Cappakeel, Emo on Sunday 12th October.