Sea2Summit sees 1,200 competitors pushed to the limit

Even by the punishing standards of today’s endurance sports, Westport’s Sea2Summit Adventure Race is a doozie.

But that didn’t deter over 1,200 hardy competitors pushing themselves to the limit at a weekend that would leave most mortals weak at the knees.

Kerry man Gerry O’Sullivan celebrated victory after taking just under an hour and three quarters to complete the 27.5km test of road running, mountain cycling, and 3km run uphill run along the terrain of Croagh Patrick, before finishing with a sea dash and intricate obstacle challenge.

And that, in challenging snowy conditions, was the easier of the two events.

The Sea2Summit event offered competitors a choice of two race categories, with the Supreme event featuring a 4.5km run, an 8km cycle, a 5km mountain hike up Croagh Patrick, another 35km cycle and a 4km run with sea dash and obstacle course, totalling 56.5km.

First home in the Supreme and more gruelling category was Westport’s Gerard Corcoran in a time of 3.07.24. Winner of the Women’s Supreme category was Ann Marie Egan in 3.49.46.

Also taking part in the event was Natasha Hamilton of girl group Atomic Kitten, winner of ITV’s Biggest Loser Kevin McLernon, RTÉ Hardy Bucks star Martin Maloney, and All-Ireland winning Tyrone footballer Stephen O’Neill.

“The weather conditions were challenging but good, the athletes were up for the challenge and it was amazing to see supporters out in their droves to cheer on the participants. No doubt there will be a few aching muscles and blisters but there is a real sense of accomplishment amongst all competitors from beginners to the more experienced Adventure Race athlete” said event director Paul O’Brien.

The Westport Sea2Summit adventure race raised upwards of €10,000 for Crumlin Children’s Hospital.