A sad night on Moughanmore when we lost a legend of our sport
by Joe McCann
“I hope you are going to cancel the race because the weather is too good” observed one of the 181 athletes who registered for race 5 of the Hill and Dale Series at Moughanmore on Thursday 16th May. The weather had uncharacteristically changed for the better as the runners arrived for the first up and down open mountain race of the 2013 series. The sun was shining approvingly as the athletes were briefed just before 7:30pm in preparation for the climb to Pigeon, then on to the summit of Moughanmore before returning to the point from which they started.
There have been some awful nights on Moughanmore in recent years, with weather ranging from horizontal hail to torrential downpours, but nothing could have prepared the large crowd of runners and spectators for the tragedy that was to unfold on this sad evening for the fell running community. Denis Rankin, a well-known, much admired and much loved member of the Hill and Dale family died tragically just short of the summit of Moughanmore, despite the attention of Mountain Rescue volunteers and doctors. Denis was a true legend in an age when the term legend is used too readily to describe undeserving recipients and his passing is mourned by all in this very close-knit running community. The thoughts and prayers of all involved in the Hill and Dale are with his wife, daughters and wider family circle as they come to terms with their loss.
For the record, though on this occasion the results pale into insignificance, Stephen Cunningham was first man home defeating the recently crowned Slieve Donard Champion Ian Bailey. Diane Wilson continued her good recent form notching up another fine win and edging out Shileen O’Kane once again. The category winners are printed here and the full results are available on the Newcastle AC website (www.newcastleac.org).
Next Thursday 23rd May, Race 6 of the series takes place in Newcastle over Millstone. Registration will be in O’Hare’s Bar from 6:15pm onwards and once again competitors are reminded of the need to bring full body cover.
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Online Registration now CLOSED and will reopen after Race 5
The 2013 Hill and Dale series resumes on Thursday 16th May after a break for the Slieve Donard Race. The weather has been indifferent in recent weeks resulting in the need for runners to be prepared for all eventualities in coming to races. This week is no different with the forecast indicating that the conditions could be very poor on the night. All competitors are reminded that full body cover is essential. There will be a kit check prior to the beginning of the race if conditions necessitate and any athlete in breach of kit regulations will be automatically disqualified irrespective of whether or not they complete the race. The health, safety and well-being of all athletes is the over-riding concern of the Hill and Dale organising committee.
Entries will be taken at the Deer’s Meadow from 6:15pm onwards on Thursday evening. Parking is limited and competitors are asked to car share where possible. Refreshments will be served at the presentation in Greenan’s Pub in Kilcoo at 9:30pm.
I look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday night.
Joe McCann, Race Director (on behalf of Newcastle Athletics Club)