County honours for Abbott and Courtney

There was success for both Ferbane and Tullamore at last weekend's Offaly Cross Country Championships held at Kilcormac.

Charlotte Abbott, of Tullamore Harriers, and Adam Courtney (Ferbane Athletics Club) triumphed in the women's 5,000 and men's 8,000 races respectively.

The women’s race was first on the programme of events. Before the start, a minute's silence was observed in memory of Ciara Moran, of Naomh Mhuire AC, who sadly passed away during the week.

Ciara had finished third in this very race last year, and her passing has left great sadness among her fellow athletes and running friends.

From the early stages, Ciara Greene of Ferbane AC took the lead, with Charlotte Abbott quickly moving into contention. Niamh McEnhill settled into third place, and these three athletes established themselves at the head of the field of 17 athletes.

As the race progressed, Charlotte made her move and pulled clear to claim the Offaly Intermediate Ladies title with Sinead and Niamh second and third respectively.

The Tullamore Harriers ladies took first place in the intermediate team competition, with Ferbane AC finishing second.