I think a good night was had by all at Saturday’s Glen’s Runners annual Christmas dinner and awards evening at the Laragh Lodge. While most only survived compos mentis for the first few hours, I can confidently say the food, drink, and craic were almost worth Sunday’s hangover. Now, as for the dancing… well, let’s just say it’s a good thing these folks can run because they appeared to be moving to about 6 different tunes at once! Huge thanks to Gary, Monica, and crew for their heroic efforts in keeping us well-fed and hydrated, and for their saint-like patience!
To the Awards….
Male athlete 2024 – Declan McNaughton
Decky has competed in all distances and terrain this year. Whether it be a speedy 5km or the sheer strength and stamina in the longer distances, he has excelled in taking on new challenges and pushing himself to the limit. Notable performances were in the Mournes Skyline, the 46km Eco Trail in Wicklow and the Granite Peaks race topped off with an exceptional 4th place in the Norn Iron 100.
Female athlete 2024 – Naomi McCurry
Naomi has shown exceptional talent this year and her dedication and commitment to training has resulted in a range of top podium places. To name a few this year, she was 1st place in Cairncastle fell race and the Granite Peaks 25km. She was 3rd in the Slieve Martin fell race in a highly competitive field and 2nd in the 30km Eco Trail in Wicklow. She is an excellent ambassador for the club and we are really proud of her international selection at Snowdon.
Most improved athlete 2024 – Joanna Wheeler Connon
Joanna has made remarkable improvement in 2024 and shown great commitment to club training. She has been outstanding over the trail and longer distances. Notable performances include 4th Vet 40 at the Spud Run, 1st Vet 40 in the Annalong Horseshoe, 2nd Vet 40 at Cairncastle Fell Race and 2nd Vet 40 at the Two Towers race. She had impressive results at the Mourne Skyline and 46km Eco Trail in Wicklow. A hugely talented athlete which resulted in 2 massive PBs in the Jura fell race and Yorkshire 3 peaks.
Dedicated newcomer 2024 – Colin Farrington
From the off Colin has fully participated in all club activities including social runs and development sessions. Despite only joining recently he has already represented the club at numerous races. We have no doubt he will have a brilliant performance at Race Over The Glens on New Year’s Day and we can’t wait to see how he excels as we enter the 2025 season.
Club Person 2024 – Oonagh Cattigan
This award is for the person that has contributed most to all things club related and there could only be one winner in 2024. Oonagh is our unsung hero who motivates others, supports club events and encourages all of us no matter what our ability! Oonagh literally keeps our feet on the ground and reminds us of why we all enjoy running. She is always looking for ways to promote our club and does so with a smile and enthusiasm that is infectious.
Glens Runners 
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