Ten weeks to go until race day
“This is a fantastic route for a 10k. It’s completely flat and includes several long straight stretches.”
Those were the words this week of the newly appointed Cork City Marathon Race Director as he announced details of the event's inaugural 10k run.
With 10 weeks to go until race day, Eamon Hayes said there is still plenty of time for people to sign up for any of the distances.
The selected route will see participants in the 10k event get to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the marathon starting line on St Patrick’s Street before heading out on a mostly flat route that will bring them along:
• Washington Street/Western Road • Mardyke Walk and Bridge • Banks of the Lee walkway • The North Quay, Pope’s Quay, part of the N20 • St Patrick’s Quay, Brian Boru Bridge • Merchant’s Quay, North Main Street, before returning to finish on St Patrick’s Street
He added: “For an elite runner, this allows them to really attack the course and aim for a personal best if that’s what they want. Equally someone with less experience can tackle this 10k without any tough hills and get to enjoy the amazing atmosphere of a city centre race.”
Eamon works as Procurement Officer at Cork City Council, but he has also been part of the organising team for Cork City Marathon for several years.
He said: “Being Race Director is a huge honour for me. The Cork City Marathon was the very first race I ever took part in back in 2011 and I was hooked - I’ve run in it every year since. 12 years on, I’m preparing for my 35th marathon that’s scheduled for next month and I’ve really got into pacing too. I was proud to be Head Pacer in Cork last year and my new role will give me yet another perspective on this fantastic event.”
The Ballincollig resident is also a member of Eagle Athletic Club and is passionate about the benefits running offers: “I started running in my early thirties as my GAA days were behind me and I wanted to get fitter. It was tough at the start but I can honestly say running changed my life. The physical and mental benefits are incredible.
“It’s also very inclusive because you can run alone or with friends, you don’t have to buy expensive equipment or gear if you don’t want to, and Cork has any number of beautiful locations to get out and go running for free.”
See corkcitymarathon.ie for more.