The Challenge...32 Marathons, 32 Counties, 32 Days
Gerry and Ken's Blog...

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Marathon 17 - Mayo

OK we didn't catch any salmon but the River Moy, just outside Ballina, provided a perfect backdrop for Marathon number 17. A two loop circuit of 13.1 miles on a flat but very attractive course was on today’s menu and it tasted good for both Ken and I. His injuries continue to heal, thanks hugely to Noeleen Bourke, our chartered physio. She has brought him back from the brink yet again and we owe this remarkable woman a huge debt of gratitude.

On mile 19 of the Galway run, I felt a twinge in my left shin and it resurfaced again today an hour, or about six miles, into the run. It stayed for the remainder and was of some concern for a period. Noeleen though had me in some discomfort on the plinth post run. "No pain no gain" she promised as I writhed in pain. She did promise an easier day tomorrow, all going well. I managed to cross the line in 4 hours twenty three minutes all of which was spent in the company of one Johnny Donnelly of ex Sawdoctors fame. Johnny has his own marathon challenge on the go (www.runjohnnyrun.ie) and was great company for the duration. Also finishing today was my brother in law Enda making his full marathon debut in the company of another Mullingar debutante Aidan Gorry who led the entire field home in 3 hours and 43 minutes.

The Race HQ for the day was Ballina Rugby Club and a huge number of locals turned up providing an amazing sense of community as they brought for runners and supporters, a delicious array of refreshments. Thanks to Molloys pharmacy in Ballina who provided all of the runners with a goody bag after finishing. Final mention to Mary, as well as Liz and Alan Murphy, our hosts. Not only did they plot the route, provide marshals and water tables, they also own one of the nicest pubs and restaurants you could ever wish to fall into, "Crocketts on the Quay".

Tomorrow we are in the home of the newly crowned Connaught Football Champions, Roscommon!

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