Tullamore Harriers trio compete in mountain running trials

Three Tullamore Harriers athletes produced strong performances at the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) B&I Junior Mountain Running Championship trials at Glenbarrow, Co. Laois, on Saturday, July 25.

The picturesque but demanding Glenbarrow course tested athletes over challenging forest trails, steep climbs and technical descents. The U18 trial covered 6.4km, while the U20 race was contested over a 7.7km course with approximately 220 metres of ascent.

After the prolonged spell of hot weather, competitors welcomed the cool, drizzly conditions, which made for much more comfortable racing on the tough mountain terrain.

Tullamore Harriers was represented by Polly Duffy, Patrick Duffy and Elise Cusack, with all three producing strong performances.

The standout result came from Elise Cusack, who finished as the third U18 girl home, securing her place on the Irish team for the British & Irish Junior Mountain Running Championships in Newcastle, Co. Down, on September 12.