The countdown to the 2010 Dublin City Marathon began in earnest last Saturday, July 17th with the first of the Adidas build up series races.  AGS had plenty of representatives in the 6000 strong field.  With approximately 150 members already signed up for the 26.2 trek through the "Fair City" in October, some signaled their intent by running the 5 mile preparation race in the Phoenix Park. 

Among the faces spotted in the crowd were, Hugh Reddy who ran a very steady 42:26.  Ahead of Hugh, Marilyn Brosnan clocked 41:19.  It was great to see Marylin back racing, even though she is still tentatively recovering from having sustained two broken wrists, in a cycling accident last Spring.  Jimmy Sixsmith ran 37:35, on his return to competitive action after a long lay off.  30 seconds further up the road was Martin Mooney , who crossed the line in 37:05.  Pat Feerick, who flew home from holidays for this one broke the ticker tape with 36:41.  Following his gut bursting run last Wednesday night in the BHAA 5k, John Griffin ran a sprightly 34:52.  Liam Landers, another who raced on Wednesday last, skipped home in 34:46.  A man who is not a regular in AGS colours, but one we'd like to see more of is Kevin Hoey.  He managed to put the heartbreak of last Sunday's Daylight Robbery behind him to run 34:05.  Ian Redican was snapped crossing the line in 33:44, while Damian Gannon's steady recovery from injury was evident in his time of 31:05 for the 5 mile course.  Denis Ferry was the fourth member of AGS home running 29:50, 10 seconds inside the magical half hour mark, while international volleyballer Sean MacSeoin ran a great race finishing in 29:14.  Lorraine Manning had a fantastic race, sprinting home in 27:57.  Lorraine was first lady in her age category and fifth lady overall.  Yet again top of the pile was Paul Moran who clocked 26:58 for the course.  Paul is in the form of his life and is currently going from strength to strength. 

Well done to all, and a sincere apology to those of you who were not spied on the day.