The John Hartnett 10K

The annual John Hartnett 10k race took place in Ballyhooley on the evening of Friday the 25th of May. John Hartnett was born in 1950 and was first introduced to the world of athletics as a young man in Ballyhooley. Within a few short years he had gained a scholarship to the world renowned Villanova University, home of many of the world’s top middle distance runners.  He represented Ireland in the Munich Olympics in 1972 and during the 70s he went on to break many Irish records. He currently holds the world record for the fastest mile ever ran on grass. In honour of his exploits a 10k race is run every year in Ballyhooley. The man himself was even on hand to present the prizes this year. This year two members of The Blackwater Triathlon Club took part in the race along with 103 others. Bernard Kiernan finished in 50:56 and Conor McCarthy, for whom last year’s race was his first ever 10k race, crossed the line in 1:09:15, over 4 minutes faster than his time last year. It was a beautiful evening for a race as the athletes set off, warm and sunny. Despite its reputation as a generally flat race the few hills on the route certainly helped the competitors to break a good sweat.  Well done to both Bernard and Conor and everyone else who took part on the day. Congratulations also to the organisers, for once again organising a very well run and friendly event, and to the spectators who helped cheer the competitors on their way.