On Thursday September 2nd, just under 100 gardai gathered at the hallowed gates of the HQ Depot in the Phoenix Park, for the annual Coiste Rinne DMR 4m road race.  The annual event has seen some accomplished athletes take home the coveted title over the years.  The sun shone down relentlessly but thankfully there was a slight breeze which helped keep the competitors cool.  Pre race favourite Ronan Hartnett lived up to the hype with a convincing victory in 21:59.  Anthony Malone who finished 2nd in 22:44 had remained with Hartnett until about half way.  It was at this point that Hartnett piled on the pressure and Malone was unable to respond as he eased away.  From the outset Mick Macken settled comfortably into third place and indeed began to make inroads into Malone's lead over the final mile, before crossing the line in 23:23.  It was a fine performance by Hartnett who won the title for the third time having previously tasted victory in 2006 and 2008.  He was unable to defend his title last year due to injury, and indeed an injury to Joe Robinson, last years champion, robbed us of a showdown between the two heavyweight speed merchants.  In the ladies race a battle royale unfolded.  Leona O'Reilly took gold in 27:12 just 5 seconds ahead of Bridget Buckley who clocked 27:17.  Maxine Quigley took the bronze in the ladies race in a time of 30:39.  In the O/40 John Roche finished first ahead of John Leonad and Ciaran O'Connor..  In the O/45 category Eddie Long took gold with Brian Brunton and Liam Landers on his tail.  In the over 50's George Maybury was the winner closely followed by Kevin Grogan and Mick Ferry ( who incidentally is 64). 

The race also incorporated the Inter-District Championships.  Teams were made up of the first 4 home from each district.  Block 2, Harcourt Sq took first with Ronan Hartnett, Anthony Malone, Brian Farrell and Leona O'Reilly.  Second was The B District made up of Hugh Shovlin, Stephen Lavin, George Maybury and Philip Farrelly.  The Technical Bureau, HQ made up of Mick Macken, John Leonard, Jer Moloney and Ian Redican finished third.

A special word of thanks to Supt' Denis Ferry for presenting the prizes and also to our photographer, Gda Kavanagh.  Thanks also to Eamon Lynch for organising today's event ably assisted by Declan Monaghan, Anthony Malone, and John Leonard.  Most importantly of all The Garda Athletic Club would like to thank all of you who participated and left your sweat out on the roads of the Phoenix Park.  Well done all.