Georgina’s Xmas Pudding Run
Sat 17/12/2011
The 4th annual Xmas Pudding run took place once again in the
village of Carlingford, when a record number of ‘Pudding’ runners, 80 brave
souls donned their festive Santa outfits and took to the hills overlooking the
Lough. Considering the harsh seasonal weather conditions the runners had to
contend with, it was great to see a fantastic field of runners take the
starters orders, outside Dan’s Cafe, for a 9k run up through Maeve’s Gap and
back to the finish in the village. 
The slippery road surface ensured the 10am start would be a
cautious one. The ascent up through the gully to Maeve’s Gap was as tough as
ever, but everyone just loving it !!. First through the Gap, taking the ‘King
of the Hill’ Pud, was Ciaran Gormley, and Maurice Harte following closely.
Meanwhile the rest of the field were ambling along, taking in the crystal clear
views of the Lough, the Mourne’s and beyond from Goylin Pass. The ice made the
conditions a tricky descent down the side of Slieve Foy forest, with Maurice
Harte making his move overtaking Ciaran Gormley who led from the start. These
were closely followed by Johnny McCabe, Niall Halpin and Gary Shields well up
with the front of the field. Mary Laverty was holding a steady gap on last
year’s winner Jolene Mallon and Daisey Murray. Down the ‘Convent Lane’ most
went, the lead man Maurice Harte taking a wrong turn for the finish. The rest
of the field, finally hitting the tarmac at King John’s Castle for the run down
to the finish line outside Dan’s.
It was hot beverages and mince pies, provided by the
proprietor, Dan the Man, who elected to conserve his energy this year, awaited
all who finished. Georgina’s Christmas puddings, kindly sponsored by the Lady
herself, were awarded to those lucky enough to receive one. Ciaran Gormley took
line honours in a time of 46.36 followed by McCabe (46:42) and Halpin
(46:49.) Mary Laverty was first lady home in 50:37. Jolene Mallon (53:09) and
Daisey Murray (56.57). The final proud finisher home was none other than John
McKevittt (1:26:11) and Clodagh O’Gorman. Thanks to Dan and all his staff,
Georgina for the lovely Pudds, and to all the participants for their support.
Proceeds from the race of €1,100 donated to Georgina on
behalf of the local branch of St. Vincent De Paul. Thanks-BIG thanks
Have a wonderful Christmas and Season’s Greetings to all.
(Use any image from album http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=10150442738038547&set=a.10150442737853547.372952.529548546&type=1&theater
KING PUDDINGS
Ciaran Gormley 46:36, Johnny McCabe 46:42, Niall Halpin 46:49, Wavren Cartmill 47:41, Gary Shields 48:22, Cathel Mc Greevy 48:33, Dean Carolan 49:11, Alan Gray 49:25, Patrick Muckian 49:33, Maurice Harte (43:45)
QUEEN PUDS
Mary Laverty 50:37, Jolene Mallon 53:09, Daisey Murray 56:57.
