Marathon Success for Tallaght Athletes

Tallaght athletes were rewarded for their performances in the recent Adidas Dublin City Marathon after the results of the Dublin and National Marathon Championships, which were run in conjunction with the event, were finally completed.

Niall Coppinger who continued his good form when leading the Tallaght men home. He was the 24th Irish athlete to cross the line in a time of 2.43.49 and picked up National silver in the O/45 vets category. He was followed home by Derek Quinn in 50th (2.59.45), Bill Murphy 66th (2.59.45). Martin Haddock 84th (3.08.17), Gary Clarke 113th (3.17.30) with Frank Ferguson 2 places further back in 115th in a time of 3.18.38. The combined times of the first 3 home placed them 5th overall in the National Masters team category, and their efforts were doubly rewarded with the “A” team of Niall Coppinger, Derek Quinn and Bill Murphy securing team silver and the “B” team of Martin, Gary and Frank the bronze in the Dublin Masters category. Both Gerry O’ Brien and debutante Pat Kelly also competed on the day.

Jacqui Boyle & Deirdre Pitts

Pat Kelly in his 1st Marathon

Our women’s team also showed their grit and determination on the day and they were duly rewarded, after Jacqui Boyle (174th – 3.37.40) led home Deirdre Pitts (175th – 3.37.40) and Helen Dunne (185th – 3.44.47) to claim the National team silver in the Masters category. Peig Henry was pleased with her performance finishing 249th of the Irish competitors in a time of 4.36.31.

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