By Cianna McNally
cianna@monaghanpost.com

The first annual Blackwater 10k Walk/Run in what organisers described as “an overwhelming turnout” at the event was held in Rossmore Park last Sunday, May 18.

An astounding 1200 people turned out to support this large-scale community event organised by local runners from Phoenix Athletic and Glaslough Harriers under the auspices of Blackwater Regional Partnership. Starting from the sprawling campus of Monaghan United F.C. after words of welcome from Monaghan Town Mayor Cllr. Padraigin UiMhurchadha, competing athletes of all ages led the pack towards the site of the castle grounds. Walkers followed and excited chatter filled the air as they engaged in a more relaxed pace and enjoyed the wonderful scenery of Rossmore.

First to pass the finish line were boys and girls who entered the 4k Fun Run, and as with the more senior athletes on the 10k, they also put in a determined effort before returning to pass through the gantry accompanied by cheers from parents and friends applauding their efforts. Considering the winding forest trails and narrow paths the top senior male finisher Delfim Dimentel came through at a remarkable 34mins 32 secs and top female finisher Eimer O’Brien soon after at an impressive 39 mins 35 secs.

Each participant received a t-shirt, medal and refreshment pack on completing the course. Throughout the afternoon, a true family atmosphere prevailed with the help of bouncy castles, face painting and penalty kicks. 60 people signed up to assist with the wide variety of marshalling and catering duties that were necessary to ensure a memorable day was had by all. Mayor of Monaghan County Council Gary Carville and Chairman of the Blackwater Regional Partnership Cllr. Sean Conlon held prize-giving ceremonies and expressed words of thanks and congratulations.

Speaking about the event, Julie Ann Spence, Projects Officer for the Blackwater Regional Partnership said,

“The success of this event came down to a team of volunteers who where dedicated to ensuring everyone had a good time, the kind sponsorship of local businesses, and everyone who came along to support two very worthwhile charities, Monaghan Hospice and Marie Curie Cancer Care. A big thank you to all involved.”

The BRP would like to thank the following organisations for their sponsorship and support - Co-op, Coolshannagh, Flemings Bakery, Bragan Water, Jim Flemmings, Irwins Bakery, Malachy McMenamin, Monaghan United, Coillte, Gardai, Civil Defence, Monaghan Harps, Back in Action, Neville Wilson, Desmond Murray, McQuaid’s, Century Homes/Kingspan, Graham Furniture. Squealing Pig, HSE, Asics, Devlish DJs, Terry McElvaney, Shabra Plastics, Roisin O’Rourke (IT – Monaghan County Council) and Tumble ‘n’ Fun.