This year’s 21st World Master Mountain Running Championship was held in Ireland for the first time, with host town being Clonmel. With the competition being local, many runners took park from all over Ireland. Age categories start at 35 with 5-year steps up to 75. Runners from both Newcastle AC and regulars from the local Hill and Dale series where well represented.

Jim Patterson won his race to collect his 3rd  Gold Medal, adding to the two he won the 70 categories a few years earlier. In addition to his individual Jim was also part of the GB team winning a team Gold. Newcastle’s Ernie Hall finished an excellent 6th planning in the 70 categories picking up a GB team Silver Medal. Eamon McCrickard and Deon McNeilly took part in 55 category running representing Ireland finishing 21st and 19th respectively.

Training plans are already being discussed for the 22nd Championships next September which take place on the Island of Maderia.

Aine McNeill, Francis Nuggent, Anne Sandford, Eamon McCrickard, Ernie Hall, Jim Patterson, Deon McNeilly, Cathal McGreevey, Paul Le Blanc

Jim Patterson