RACE REPORT

The Armagh International 5k and 3k races produced another year of sensational times and racing. This is one of the fastest and most competitive races in the world. The standard of athletes in the 5k is truly incredible and credit to Armagh A.C. for attracting such world class athletes to one road race. For the past few years the times have been getting faster and faster. This year was no exception. Last year was a record for the amount of athletes running under 14 mins, 15 mins and 16 mins, as weather conditions were mild with little or no breeze. This year weather conditions were less favorable, however, we still witnessed some amazing racing and even better performances than 2019.

The evening kicked off with the children's races. These races added to the build up and excitement created around the course and along the finish line area. The atmosphere was already electric before the 1st race, the women's 3k took to the line. Some extremely talented women lined up for what was a rip roaring race from start to finish. The course record was broken for a second year running. Anna Emile Moller of Denmark won the race in a time of 8:58.

At this stage the buzz and excitement was at fever pitch. The crowd was fueled up with excitement, adrenaline and anticipation for the Men's 5k. The women's race had set the standard for the men.

We were certainly not disappointed with the Mens 5k. What an atmosphere we witnessed. You could sense the nervous tension on the start line among the athletes. This was what spectators were waiting for all evening. Bang the gun went off and the 2020 Brooks Armagh International road race was off. They teared up the 5 lap course at incredible pace. This was an experience for spectators to be so close to so many fine athletes running at such pace and providing a great spectacle of racing.

This years winner was Adam Clarke of Team Real Runners in a another course record of 13:42. We had 21 runners under and 138 runners under 15 mins.

The Mens 3k followed after the mens 5k. Again some fine young athletes were involved. With the distance at 3k there was no time for a breather for both the athletes and spectators. This race was won by Mathew Neil of Acorns A.C.