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SOME 2,000 intrepid runners and walkers got off to an early start on Saturday to compete in what organisers promised to be the “world’s most beautiful road race”, in the form of the Run Killarney event.

Molls Gap provided a misty start line for the half marathon which got under way at 8.30am. The route encompassed Ladies Views, Killarney National Park and passing iconic landmarks including Muckross House and Abbey.
“Competitors enjoyed stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney and the unspoiled beauty of the Park,” said spokeswoman Lisa Daly of organiser Elite Event Management.

In the half marathon the first male to finish was Niall Shanahan (Cork) who set a new course record of 1 hour 13 minutes 39 seconds. In second place was Christopher Murnane (Cork), 1 hour 15 minutes 49 seconds and finishing third was Donal White (Kerry Crusaders) 1 hour 16 minutes 2 seconds.

The first female home in the half marathon was Teresa Diaz (Spain) 1 hour 24 minutes 35 seconds followed closely by local lady Alison Kirwan (Star of the Laune AC) 1 hour 26 minutes 08 seconds and Deirdre Nagle (Eagle AC) 1 hour 26 minutes 19 seconds.

The weather brightened up for the start of the 10k race at 10am. Runners from local athletics clubs An Riocht and Star of the Laune were among the big winners on the day. First across the line in the 10k event was Donal O’Callaghan in 33 minutes 59 seconds, followed closely by the first female Siobhan Daly (Gneeveguilla AC) 41 minutes 26 seconds.

“The Gleneagle Hotel was the centre of activity where competitors were treated to a well-earned massage, Japanese hot tubs, custom made medals and hot food at the finish line. Spectators and participants basked in the summer sunshine at the finish area,” said Lisa.

Now in its seventh year the event attracted competitors from all over Ireland and international athletes from America, Austria, Japan, France and the UK.

Event organiser Oliver Kirwan said" “Events like this are brilliant for the town promoting a healthy lifestyle and showcasing the best that the Killarney has to offer. “Sporting events in Killarney are becoming increasingly popular and plans are under way for an even bigger event in 2017. Events of this size are not possible without huge support of all the volunteers, Killarney Rugby Club, Killarney AC, Killarney town council, Killarney Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, the Civil Defence and the Killarney National Parks & Wildlife Service.”
 

 
Pictured above: Louise Devaney and Eddie O'Sullivan.