The National Half Marathon Championships will take place this Saturday, August 30th, as part of the sold-out Bord na Móna Tullamore Half Marathon.
Hosted by Tullamore Harriers, the race kicks off at 10am, guiding runners through a scenic route that winds through Mucklagh, Killurin, and Cloonagh, before culminating in a thrilling final 400m lap of the stadium track.
With over 800 championship entries, this year’s race promises to be fiercely competitive. Last year’s senior team titles went to Leevale AC (Men) and DSD AC (Women) in Charleville, but predicting this year’s winners is no easy task given the competitiveness of the fields.
The battle for individual honours is equally compelling. A host of top athletes will be eyeing a spot on the national podium, and the possibility of a new name emerging among the champions cannot be ruled out.
Kate Purcell (Raheny Shamrock AC), the 2022 national champion, could spearhead a strong Raheny team in the hunt for team honours. Meanwhile, Noreen Brouder (Sportsworld AC) has been in excellent form on the roads this season and will be one to watch.
The men’s race looks a wide-open affair, and much will be revealed when athletes take their place on Saturday’s start-line alongside a certain European Indoor 400m champion who is sure to be suited by the final 400m stadium dash for home.
As hosts, Tullamore Harriers will be well represented, fielding an impressive 60 athletes across various age categories, and are expected to be competitive throughout.
