A misnomer

18 August, 2025 - David Power

You could easily sign up for this race and think "sure it's only up and down, just like the other championship races". But then you realise as you crest over Cush and go down again, that it's a bit more than that. Five climbs in all, crossing 3 mountains out and back. I've hiked here before, so know the terrain, but still it's a different beast when running flat out (well power walking on the way up).
This year I put my mind to competing in the Irish champs, picking 3 races around the country to square up against the best on the big mountains in each province. It's been a rewarding experience. Getting to know where I stand - generally behind Brian, Sean, Henry and Nick. While I might be strong going up, it's the steep downhills where I drift backwards. But you know what? That's mountain racing.
€7 for a lovely field to park your car, sambos, cake and drinks after, unspoilt views of the Galtees, a gaggle of familiar faces, people of all ages, united in a common hobby (surely there's no pros out there?)
It's definately the toughest of the 3 champs races I've done this year - Donard is steep, Mangerton can be heavy going, but this was gruelling and the heat by the end didn't make it any easier.
Well done to Caroline and Matt - a league ahead of the rest.
Thanks to Vivian and all the volunteers who do their magic.