Well done Gerry, yet again!!
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W
hilst most of us might be happy to run even one marathon a year or even a lifetime!. Not Gerry, oh no!. Having already run the 26.2 mile distance on 10 previous occasions including this year's London Marathon in April, Gerry went straight back into training in preparation for his home city marathon, Dublin. Traditionally run on the last Monday in October, which is a bank holiday in the Republic of Ireland, the marathon is also known as the 'Friendly Marathon'. The Dublin course is a classic city loop with start and finish lines in the city centre near the famous Trinity College. After a terrible weekend weather-wise leading up to the event, a record 12,500 runners were delighted when race day dawned, it was mild and calm. With Amhrán na bhFiann and Molly Malone belting out of the PA system, the race got going at 9am.
Gerry quickly settled into a rhythm despite the hills of Pheonix Park and by half way he was going well. Having gone through half way in 1 hour 42 minutes and 16 seconds, the race then became a bit of a stop start affair, as Gerry was greeted and cheered by members of the O’Beirne family. By the time he passed over the Grand Canal, and with the finish in sight, he was motoring. One final push along Merrion Square and it was all over, finishing in 3 hours 38 minutes and 28 seconds. Although it was a really good time, Gerry said afterwards "I felt good, and should have pushed myself harder". Well, keep that for the next one Gerry. Speaking of which , there are rumours that he is already back in training. Perhaps he has his eye on the Creigiau Fun Run !! |
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Well done, Gerry, just goes to prove there is life in the Old Dog yet!
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| Posted on November 2nd 2009 |
