G.C.H. athletes travelled far and wide this St. Patrick's weekend, competing in some of the many events taking place over the holiday.

On Saturday Orla Ni Mhuircheartaigh continued her winning streak, this time over the hills and trails of the Wicklow Way at the University Mountain Running Championships. Representing NUIG, Orla won her debut mountain race, from two members of the 2007 Irish team. The race was organised by IMRA, the Irish Mountain Running Association.

Gary Thornton was a close 4th in the KBC St. Patrick's Festival road race on Sunday. The 5k race which started and finished at the Mansion House, is organised by Metro St. Brigid's AC with Eamonn Coughlan as Race Director. Just 4 seconds seperated the top 4 men - winner Balazs Csillaf finished in 14:28 with Gary finishing in 14:32.

Closer to home the Ballinrobe 8k, held on Sunday, was won by Conor Maloney. Bernie Kelly took part in this race on Sunday and also travelled to Tubbercurry on Monday to take part in the 35th running of the South Sligo 10k road race. Jane Campbell was 2nd in the Senior Ladies event and as usual all the runners relaxed afterwards in Killoran's bar where the tea and prizes were presented.