Team Geared Up

DUBLIN, IRELAND (Team Geared Up) Last weekend at the Trail World Challenge in Huntsville Park, Texas, ultrarunner Helena Crossan stormed to a silver medal in the first running of the event. The 50 mile off road event was held in temperatures of over 30 degrees in a four loop course, accorinding to Athletics Ireland.

In the men’s race, there was a serious health scare for Ireland’s Marty Rea, the 2007 national 100km title-holder. In sixth position with only 400 metres remaining, the Irishman suddenly collapsed from his efforts. Paramedics were immediately on the scene and Rea was rushed to hospital. He was paralysed or some ten hours before making a recovery.

Irish ultra runners have been making remarkable progress on the international scene, particularly in adventure running, with the Irish men’s 100km team also ranked in the top eight in the world. Crossan’s medal represents another milestone in the continuing development of the sport.

Congrats to Helena, I’m a huge fan! Best wishes to Marty, hope he recovers soon. Race report and results from IAU here.