The photos from the Lisbon half marathon caught my eye some years ago. The sight of hundreds of people running across the 25 de Abril Bridge over the Tagus River was amazing, and I remember thinking I would try and do it at some stage. Last autumn I saw something online about it being nearly sold out, so decided this might as well be the year and signed up. The weekend coincided with me getting results from three years of parttime study so I thought I would mark it with a little weekend trip, especially when I found cheap flights and great value hotel, it seemed like fate.

Little did I know it would be akin to monsoon season in Lisbon when the weekend came around. I arrived to grey skies, emerged from the Expo with my race number to lashing rain, and spent most of Friday afternoon and Saturday dodging downpours. I had no option but to make an emergency shopping trip to buy dry clothes as by the Saturday evening everything I had packed was soaked and I didn’t want to waste any more time drying things with a hairdryer.

Anyway, back to the race and I’d heard from previous years the Lisbon Half can be somewhat disorganised. Its also a bit of a faff getting to the start as the only option is by train and while you are recommended a time train for your wave, it’s really a free for all. Knowing this, with a 9.30am start I decided to leave early and headed off into the drizzle at 7am. The train arrived, but there was no hope of getting on…I’m not sure how they managed to get all the doors closed. I’ve seen the Luas at rush hour, but this was next level crowded. Luckily the next train was a bit better, and I even managed to get a seat.

We crossed the river and arrived at the station. From there it was a 10-minute walk to the start area. Amazingly, for the first time in two days the rain stopped…then came a lot of hanging around, and apart from one brief torrential downpour, the sky cleared. Eventually at 9.15 they let people into their waves. I don’t know why they bothered with them, no one stayed in them, it was easy to move forward and back. A bus with VIPs arrived and were let into the front also – I found out later the VIP buses were filled with people who had paid extra for a VIP pass to avoid the train and start up front. It meant there was every pace in every wave. The 6 min per km pacer was up front in wave one chatting to the 5 min per km pacer as we started. Not sure how that would have worked out seeing as those aiming for 2 hours were in wave 4.

Just as the gun went off the sun appeared and luckily it stayed nice for the rest of the morning. Unfortunately, I, along with a lot of other runners, had dressed for the rain and cold, so overheated a bit in leggings and a jacket, but it was a small price to pay for the thrill of running over that bridge. That really was a great experience and the atmosphere was super. The rest of the route is somewhat uninspiring, but welcome downhills, good support, and a bit of banter with other runners occasionally made it a fun experience. It was all very noneventful, right until I turned the corner to the finish and couldn’t believe what I saw – tailbacks…the finish area was the most chaotic I have ever seen, it was impossible to run over the timing mat, there was a huge crowd at a standstill, the only option was to shuffle along over the mat eventually and then slowly on to where we were given a water, an ice cream and a nice medal featuring that incredible bridge.

I heard stories after the race of people who couldn’t get to the start on time because of train issues, who missed bag drop and had to run with their belongings, and of general chaos. I was so glad my hotel was near the finish, and I hadn’t bothered with bag drop. Despite the rain I really enjoyed exploring Lisbon, there is something charming about its hilly streets, colourful, dilapidated architecture and friendly people. Then there are the pasteis de nata.

I’m glad I did the race, apart from a lot of waiting around and the disorganised finish, my experience was pretty good. I think if you don’t mind a bit of chaos, it’s a nice event. If they sorted out the final traffic jam at the finish area it would even be a good place for anyone aiming for a PB as its mostly flat and where it’s not, its downhill.

Yesterday at Abbottstown marked the final race in our Meet and Train series.

The journey started back in Tymon Park, where I took part in my very first cross-country race. I was excited but also a little apprehensive as I didn’t want to let down my team mates or Sportsworld. I run the 5k parkrun at Bushy Park, so I thought, “Two miles? That’s nothing.” How wrong I was! I quickly found that cross-country is a whole different beast. The hills, the uneven ground, and starting off way too fast made it an unbelievably tough experience. I spent the entire race huffing and puffing, feeling like I was at the very edge of my limits. Luckily, I didn’t yet have a Sportsworld singlet, so I could fly a bit under the radar while my lungs and my legs screamed at me. The soreness in my legs lasted until Tuesday, which was a reminder of how much harder cross-country running is than I initially thought! Since then, my legs haven’t hurt so I must have become a bit more accustomed to the challenge.

Yesterday’s Race, was a bit easier in comparison, though “easy” is hardly a word I’d ever use to describe cross-country. The course yesterday was 2 laps, and I have to admit, the lap felt long! Luckily, during our warm-up, we ran the lap once, so I knew in advance just how tough it would be. It was good to know what to expect, but honestly, even though it was only 2 miles, it felt like so much more. For me, running is often more of a mental game than a physical one. 2 miles is 2 miles, but on that course, it felt like an eternity—every lap seemed longer than I anticipated.

As for the race itself, I was so focused on getting around the course and pushing through those tough hills that I honestly didn’t notice much around me. I didn’t see any of the men warming up on the track, which I saw mentioned on the WhatsApp afterwards. I was oblivious to everything except getting to that finish line! It’s funny how in the moment, all that matters is just finishing. And then once over the finish line how great you feel.

One of the things that I’ve appreciated the most about this series is the amazing spirit of the club. All of the ladies are absolutely incredible, and I’m in awe of their talent and determination. A special shout out to Ann Marie, who has organised the series with such care and enthusiasm. Her cheers during the races were a constant source of encouragement. Also, a big thanks to Olive for her cheers yesterday! She’s usually at the front of the pack but despite being sick, she still found the energy to come and help push us along. I also want to extend a huge thank you to Emily and Myles for all your support and encouragement throughout the series, as well as the unbelievable dedication you put into our training.

And of course, we can’t forget one of the best parts of the day: the teas, coffee, and cakes at the end of the race! It’s a fantastic opportunity to chat and celebrate each other’s efforts. It really makes all the hard work worth it.

Reflecting on this experience, I can confidently say that the Meet and Train series has been a fantastic experience, and it was great being part of a team. A big shout out to my Team E teammates—Joanna, Emily, and Jessica. We may not be collecting any medals this time, but it was all so worthwhile. Here’s hoping all the other Sportsworld teams will bring home some well-deserved medals!

Lorna Quinn

The National Intermediate and Masters cross country event took place on Sunday February 9th at Westport House grounds. Runners from north, south, east and west descended upon this scenic location for a highly anticipated and nerve inducing race!

Sportsworld runners were out in force. We had teams for Ladies Intermediate and Masters, and a team for Men’s Masters. We also had Lucy Darcy challenge herself to toe the line as an individual club runner at this highly competitive event, and come out strong winning silver for her age category on the Dublin O50 team. Each runner had their own goal, drive and hope.

Going into this race, the Intermediate and Masters Ladies teams knew they had every chance to do well, considering two very successful outcomes at both Dublin and Leinster cross country races this year. We had strength in numbers and strength in depth. Cross country running is a team event. Every runner running for their team; knowing that every runner they pass is a step closer to victory. And victory we had at this event! Our Ladies Intermediate team took 3rd team overall, with all six runners in the top 20 finishers. This team is so strong and so tight. Elaine Kennedy was awarded a gold medal for her place on the winning Dublin team for this race, and it was justly deserved for Elaine powered through the course with her consistent strength and speed.

Our Masters Ladies team took 2nd place overall. Led by Noreen Brouder, who scored gold on the winning Dublin team, Noreen set the pace from off. She was quickly followed by Aoife, Lorna, Crona and Caroline. Spurred on by cheers from family, friends and SW supporters, the acceleration was on as we tried with all our might to stay close and pack tight. There was jubilation and joy all around as we learned we placed 2nd as a team. Pure delight! Noreen was decked out in medals as she was also awarded a silver medal for being 2nd O45.

We were very lucky with the weather on the day. Dry, crisp and cold, with not a drop of rain in sight. The ground was solid and hard with some muddy sections that threatened a spike to sink. Our Masters race was 4K which involved one short, and two long laps of the winding course. The Intermediate Ladies race was 5K which involved two short and two long laps.

And what about Liam Lenehan?! I joined Liam on a warm-up before the race. Eager to know the race route, we both set off and asked a very helpful steward to explain the meandering course to us. His parting words were “If in doubt, just follow whoever is in front!”. Does he know who he is talking to? I wondered. This is Liam Lenehan, the winner of the recent Dublin and Leinster cross country races, and soon to be, winner of the National cross country!! Well, Liam glided through the course with sheer determination, drive and gazelle like speed. His achievement on the day was not lost on him as he smiled through tears of joy, pride and gratitude for this physical feat. Liam was 1st O65 and placed on the winning Dublin team. Congratulations Liam! We are all absolutely thrilled for you.

The Masters Men as always put on a fine display of grit, courage and strength as they toed theline for their 7K race. This involved one short lap and four long laps. Trevor, Gareth, Gavin, Padraig and Brian all put in incredible runs. So fast and so strong. I think every race makes you a stronger runner and these runners have raced many track, middle distance, long distance and marathon events to date, and they still continue to compete at a very high level, both with themselves and within a team. It is brilliant and it is inspiring to see.

Days like Sunday would not be possible without key people behind the scenes encouraging, motivating, guiding, reassuring, cheering and supporting us throughout our weekly and weekend training sessions. Emily, Myles and Paul turn up consistently in all weathers to set us in motion for every training session and stay with us until the very end. It is no wonder Sportsworld is 40 years plus and continuing to grow stronger with ever increasing memberships. Here’s to many more days like Sunday and here’s to Sportsworld continuing to compete with the very best in all races near and far.

Kate Burke

The National Intermediate and Masters Cross Country Championships took place last Sunday, 9th February and it was a great day out for the club with some excellent Sportsworld performances!

The championships were held in Westport this year so most headed down on Saturday to make the most of a nice weekend trip west. This was my first national cross country race since joining the club. I had initially double booked myself that weekend so didn’t know if I would be available, but with a mild twist ofthe arm, in true Emily Dowling style, I could not say no and cleared the schedule. Looking back now, with a national medal to show for it, I’m glad I went! Thank you Emily.

It was a cold day in Mayo but we were glad the rain held off! Cross country runners are known for their toughness, but there were moments on that course when swimming might have been the more viable option. The ground was heavy and the uneven terrain gave the ankles a real test but besides that, it was ok! Not too many hills and plenty of Sportsworlders along the route providing great support. Nothing like the sight of Emily or Myles to get you motoring.

Moving on to the results, a massive congratulations to Liam Lenehan who continued on his winning streak to collect both individual and county gold in his age category. A great cross country season for Liam. We had a very strong Masters Ladies team and all ran very well to bring home team silver for the club, led by Noreen Brouder who also got an individual silver in her age category and a gold county medal. Shout-out to Lucy D’arcy who collected a county Silver medal to add to an ever-expanding medal collection!

The Masters Men were next, facing a gruelling 7km through the mud that only got worse with each passing lap. Leading the team home was Trevor Sweeney with a strong performance, followed closely by Garreth Murran who also delivered a solid run. The cross country season has provided a great chance to catch up since Garreth’s move to Limerick long may that tradition continue! Great races from all our other athletes in this tough race. I did not envy that extra 2km you all had to run.

The final race of the day featuring Sportsworld athletes was the Intermediate Ladies 5km race, bringing the curtain down on what has been a successful cross country season for our women’s team. It has been great to be part of this group that not only supports each other but also pushes everyone to dig deeper and race harder. Between the Dublin, Leinster and National cross country races this year, we have had 12 athletes competing for the team, a great panel you could say! Last Sunday, we got a team bronze for the club, led home by Elaine Kennedy who had a great race to finish in 7th place overall, and who also secured a gold medal for the county. It was a tough race but we packed well together as Emily always encourages us to do. A big shout-out to all the girls who have been involved with the team throughout the season. Maybe we’ll get silver next year?

The day finished with a cool down around the lovely grounds of Westport House before getting the rugby set up on the phones to tune in to the Ireland-Scotland match. Another success story.

Once again, well done to all who competed. I haven’t mentioned all the names but you know who you are! Thanks also to the supporters who travelled long distances to Westport and collected numbers/held gear etc. It was appreciated. And just like that, the cross country season has come to a close for many of us. While my knees and I prefer the softer, forgiving grass underfoot, I do like an occasional road race so it is time to shift the focus to what’s next – some fun road racing!

Liam Lenehan

Ours was the first senior race and we had to tackle a 4k, 3 lap route (1x1k and 2×1.5k). Nationals always feature a wide start chute of at least 250m which is not run on again during the laps so it is generally firm and facilitates a fast start which this was.

Race Report Joanna Power

On the 9th February, Dublin Frontrunners hosted the third Meet & Train of the 2024/25 season at Marino Institute. The day was clear and a bit cold. I ran my first cross-country race since the ‘90s in January at the DSD campus, and was regrettably cavalier about checking out the course. Why would I want to do that?! I thought. Sure I’ll just see how it goes! Remorse. So this time around I very much wanted to see where we’d be running. We did a warmup lap and found the course to be fairly flat and dry. For some strange reason I kept saying, “looks much easier than last time”. More remorse.

After a few strides we started off. The Marino route begins with a small hill which at warmup was absolutely fine but after everyone had warmed up on it had become very muddy – and we had our first fall of the race (not mine, but I’d say i was not too far off). Other than the hill and another dodgy spot, the course was great. Feeling absolutely on top of the world I ignored literally all of the advice I’d been given and set off fast. I was flying! Until around the end of the first lap, when I started to feel it…I lost a lot of ground and had to really push to keep going. AnnMarie’s support on the course was invaluable as was that of the other runners – everyone has such encouraging words for each other (I’d relay them but there were too many curse-words). Shauna O’Callaghan was the first Sportsworld lady home.

By the final lap I was held together with twine but I saw AnnMarie and mustered up enough energy/pride to pass a few runners in the final push before stumbling home. In an indecent amount of time we’d forgotten all the agony and had a lovely cooldown lap before heading into the hall to enjoy the spread. It was impressive – so much so that we were given doggy bags. I got some more good advice from the wonderful ladies in the club about pacing and I have convinced myself that I learned a lot that I can implement at the next Meet and Train. You underestimate cross-country at your own peril – it is so different to road racing. Cross-country is an absolute shock to the system but (coupled with the sheer volume of baked goods you get afterwards) strangely addictive!

Race Report Carmel Breen

Leinster Cross Country Report: Faithful Fields, Kilcormac, Co. Offaly

Saturday, January 18th, saw the Leinster Cross Country Championships take place in the picturesque Faithful Fields GAA grounds in Kilcormac, County Offaly. The course was everything you’d expect from a proper Leinster cross-country: twisty paths, firm ground underfoot, and plenty of challenging climbs. Every participant left feeling the trademark soreness of a great cross-country race.

A New Venue and Scenic Route

It was a delight to race at this new venue, which offered a warm welcome and a good walk from the car park to warm up. Sportsworld AC had an outstanding turnout, and a big thanks is due to our dedicated coaches for their support in preparing the teams and getting everyone out on the day.

For me, this race marked a special milestone as it was my first cross-country outing since moving to Limerick. The scenic drive to Kilcormac was a highlight in itself, passing through towns like Borrisokane in Tipperary, known for its historical link to Irish independence, and Birr in County Offaly, home to the magnificent Birr Castle and its world-famous telescope. On the way home I even managed a stop at picturesque Lough Boora.

Results and Highlights

Sportsworld AC had another fantastic day with several strong performances and medals to celebrate:

• Liam continued his winning streak, showing incredible form as he stormed to victory. All eyes are now on Mayo for February 9th—at this rate, even Siri will know who he is by then!
• Our women’s teams shone brightly, with both the Masters and Intermediate squads taking home well-deserved gold club medals, with some county thrown in for good measure. Standouts were Noreen Brouder and Aoife Carroll both taking individual Silver and County Team Gold and Club Team Gold,but everyone excelled with huge performances from Lorna Quinn and Elaine Kennedy. Kudos to all our new runners.
• For the men’s Masters team, standout performances included:
  • Gareth Murran (16th, 25:03), Trevor Sweeney (20th, County Team Gold).
  • Derek Saville, Adam Furlong, and Paul O’Connell all putting in strong runs.
• The Intermediate men finished the day with fine runs from Donagh and Ian and newcomer Souvik toughing it out to the finish. Most of the lads are new to cross country. It takes few goes beore you ever like it.

Congratulations to everyone who raced—the hard work and determination paid off on a tough course. It was full of twists, turns and solid gradients. The races all went over different distances wit the youngsters running longer.

The future is bright with a really strong national contender Intermediate  womens team and always improving mens team.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for the next big race in Mayo, it’s great to see the camaraderie and team spirit that define Sportsworld AC. Remember: showing up and putting in the effort are the keys to progress. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Here’s to more adventures, more climbs, and more victories. See you all on February 9th! I’ll be there to catch up on the goss I miss every Tuesday.