5k ESB Beach Race at Sandymount

The twelfth running of ESB Business Houses Athletic Association 5K beach race was held on June 13th in perfect weather conditions. An overcast sky and a slight breeze helped to keep the runners cool. The going was not as good as in 2005 and this accounted for slower times in this year's race.

Race organisers Charlie Cronin and Larry MacSweeney ensured that everything went smoothly. 250 competitors toed the line in Sandymount. Dave Byrne (KIT Ind Trading) won the Eamonn Gilbert Trophy in the men's event.

The winning time was 16.56 ahead of 2nd place, veteran Tom McGrath (Dublin Inst Technology) in 17.02. Irish junior international Eoin Healy was 3rd in 17.04. Eoin is the son of ESB'S John Healy and former ESB employee Antoinette Brennan. Paul Cowhie (CMS), who finished 5th, was first man over 40 and he won The Stephen Kennefick Trophy for this category. Orla Gormley (Aer Lingus) was first lady home in 35th place overall in 20.22. Hazel Murphy (AIB) finished 2nd in 20.39, while Helen Leonard (Carroll Heinemann) was 3rd in 21.02.

The presentations were held in The Clanna Gael/Fontenoys GAA Clubhouse afterwards. Refreshments were served to all competitors courtesy of Head Office Catering Services.

Competitors were spoiled for choice between a video of the race in the Hall and the World Cup game Brazil v Croatia in the Bar! There was more action on the video! Comprehensive results were displayed with the help of an overhead projector courtesy of BHAA. The results are available on the ESB Intranet Site under Sports & Social, Athletics Club. Gertie Gilbert and Mary Kennefick presented the prizes.

ESB Athletic Club would like to thank ESB Corporate Affairs, Joe Mescall in ESB Head Office Restaurant, Shay Connolly in Clanna Gael Fontenoy GAA Club, and both the Gilbert and Kennefick families. Stewarding is vital for all races and this was provided by ESB work colleagues and members of ESB AC. ESB Athletic Club would welcome new members for future BHAA events.