Hill and Dale Race 5: Slieve Donard
Two intrepid OG’s headed to Newcastle for Saturday’s Hill & Dale number 5 – Michael O’Donoghue and Robin Montgomery. Donard is the toughest of the H&D series with a route of approximately 5.2miles and 2700 ft climb & descent. 202 runners braved the course and both Orangegrovers opted for the shorter but more terrifying ‘black stairs’ route. Both finished with very respectable times, Robin – 01:22:44 and Michael – 02:01:52.
Perhaps unsurprisingly the race was won by someone who knows the area and challenging terrain like the back of his hand; Newcastle AC’s Ian Bailey, with a time of 53min45secs. Dromore AC’s Diane Wilson was the first lady to complete the tough course in an impressive time of 1hour09mins49secs.
All credit to Newcastle AC on what was I am told a very well organised event, the complementary burgers were very well received by runners. Robin is still having considerable difficultly descending stairs and Michael was quoted as saying; “at the end we were muddy & sweaty and just wanted to get our clothes off”. Enough said. Definitely one to consider next year!
