In the heart of County Louth, (not County Meath this time – Ernie has branched out) the Dromiskin 5K returned on Saturday, 13th September promising another thrilling evening of speed, community, and athletic excellence. Hosted by St. Peter’s AC in partnership with St. Joseph’s GFC, this race has become a staple in Ireland’s running calendar, drawing elite competitors and enthusiastic locals alike.

The race unfolds on a fast, flat road course, ideal for runners chasing personal bests, albeit with a lot of surface water and huge puddles as a result of a deluge of torrential rain showers throughout the day but thankfully the sun came out just in time for the warm up.  The route winds through the scenic village of Dromiskin, offering smooth tarmac, gentle curves, and minimal elevation—perfect for both seasoned athletes and first-time racers.

The taxi bus arrived (that is wee Ernie in the van) at 4.45pm – plenty of time to get parked, numbers collected and a warm up.  En route conditions were not looking good – rain hammering down on the wind screen up the M1.  As the 7pm start time drew near 1000 plus runners took to the start line.  First over the line for Newcastle AC was Matthew Sutton in 13th place overall with 16.32 and third Male Junior Category win.  Next through the finish line was Neil Mc Geough 17. on pacing duties with his son Conor in 17.28 and 7th Male Junior.  Oran Dillon was not far behind in 17.55 and if memory serves me right 2 seconds faster than his last Dromiskin race in 2024.  Next up was Ashlene Mussen in a blistering 19.47 108th overall and 17th Female overall taking 4 seconds of her Carlingford run.  Hot on his wife’s heels and after a 3 week Krombacker ban Oggie was in fine form – 19.50 and 110th overall.  Butcher was next Newcastle AC runner to finish in 20.07 119th overall and third in M60 category. Lorna was over the line next for Newcastle AC in 21.11 trying her best to stay with Jack Mc Geough who finished in 20.34.  Next up was  Ernie who  had an amazing run in 22.52 with Wee Leea smashing her PB again breaking the 23 mm barrier in 22.55 and 13th F40.  We wish Brendan Mc Quaid a quick recovery as he sustained a hamstring injury.

Matthew Sutton 16.32 -Third Male Junior

Neil Mc Geough 17.31

Oran Dillon 17.55

Ashlene Mussen 19.47

Ciaran Og Mussen (Oggie) 19.50

John Butcher Kelly 20.07

Lorna Cunningham 21.11 – 2nd Female 50

Ernie Hall 22.52

Wee Leea Walsh 22.55

 Back to the impressive GAC hall with a spread of tae, coffee, ‘lock’ of sandwiches and of course the buns.  At this point it was difficult to manage some of the club members as they scoured the tables for their favourite post race nimbles.  Thankfully Ashlene had a close eye on Oggie and was able to reign him back to base!  Oggie the kind and considerate person that he is returned with a ‘jam tart’ for his mate Ernie!  No pints of Guiness for Butcher and the crew as we thought an early night was needed before the long 10 mile run on Sunday morning!