Mayo man wins National Half Marathon title

Ballina AC's Hugh Armstrong ran brilliantly to win the National Half Marathon Championship in Charleville on Sunday. Armstrong was first across the line in Cork, completing the distance in a time of 1:04.35. Armstrong enjoyed a superb battle with defending champion Ryan Creech (Leevale) who put up a strong showing in defence of his title to ultimately come home in second in 1:04.54. Eoghan Totten (Newcastle & District AC) was right in contention throughout, completing the podium to cross in 1:05:56.
Speaking after the race, a delighted Armstrong spoke of how the leaders pushed on from the halfway mark and complimented all involved in putting on today’s event. He said: “We slowed to 30.40 at the 10km mark and I said I better pick it up a bit and we picked up nicely on the way back. It was a great battle with Ryan (Creech) the whole way back, so I’m delighted. The course was very good and the organisation by all involved was great so thanks to everyone.”