Overshadowing all the week’s achievements was the death of three Dublin – and Irish – athletics stalwarts over the weekend.
Claire Walsh of Clonliffe Harriers was an outstanding and inspirational servant of Irish athletics, competing in the 1972 Olympics and winning 19 national titles.
For a full review of her brilliant career see clonliffeharriersac.com/clonliffe-olympian-claire-walsh-rip.
For many years, Ann Peppard of Raheny Shamrock AC was a highly respected figure in Dublin juvenile and national athletics, combining exceptional organisationals skills with a wicked sense of humour. Like their dynamic mother, Ann’s children also became immersed in athletics and the good news is that a third generation of Peppards is now involved.
With her twin, Dorothy, Sheila Champion from Harold’s Cross in Dublin emerged on the athletics scene around the time of the first women’s mini marathon. She joined Sportsworld AC and began competing in a wide range of events at masters level winning national and international honours. With a background in gymnastics, both sisters pioneered pole vaulting for the older woman.
May all three of these great women – each of them pioneers in their own way – rest in peace.
Caption: Clonliffe Harriers’ Claire Walsh competed at the
1972 Olympics and winning 19 national titles
Viking joy for Moldovan
On the roads, Tudor Mircea Moldovan of Clonliffe Harriers was the winner of the Waterford Viking Marathon on Sunday (June 25).
Moldovan finished in 2 hrs 30 mins 55 secs. It was his third marathon win of the year.
Modovan’s Clonliffe clubmate Sergiu Ciobanu won the half marathon in 68:42.
Emma Mitchell, also Clonliffe Harriers, won the Lisburn 10km on Wednesday evening (June 21) in 36 mins 6 secs.
Paul Stephenson of Rathfarnham WSAF AC won the Clonee 10km in 32 mins 9 secs on Thursday (June 22).
Lucan gear up for 5-mile
Preparation for Lucan Harriers’ 5-mile race continues and entries are now picking up.
The club have had great interest in the couch2-5mile initiative. With almost 30 people signing up for this so far, entries still open for this.
For €50 you get race entry, a race tee, a 10 week training programme on the track on Monday and Thursday and Lucan Harriers membership until 31st Dec 2023. You can preregister for this or turn up on the night.
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