O’Hanlon bids to continue hot streak with Cork crown
O’Hanlon (Clonliffe Harriers) is looking to go one place better than last year when he was trumped by Poland’s Bartosz Mazerski in the last mile, losing by 23 seconds — 2:28:29 to 2:28:52.
Mazerski is in the field once again and it’s a challenge that O’Hanlon is looking forward to. “The body’s healing,” said the 39-year-old Louth man of his recent exploits, that saw him win the Newry Marathon last week (May 25) and Killarney on May 18.
“It’s going to be a serious battle with Bartosz Mazerski, who’ll be eager to defend his title, but I’m running better than last year,” continued the colourful Clonliffe runner.
O’Hanlon nearly died in a fatal car crash when he was out on a run 20 years ago and on the cusp of an athletics scholarship to the US. The Clonliffe Harrier had to rebuild his life and is now enjoying an Indian summer to his athletics career and ran a personal best of 2:23:54 at last year’s Dublin marathon.
The chirpy runner has also carved out a niche as a successful running coach in Dublin. “It’s great to be able to help other runners achieve their goals, as well as my own,” concluded O’Hanlon who will be aiming for his 10th marathon victory in total.
Now in its eighth year, Cork is an internationally recognised marathon with certification from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
Race Director Jim O’Donovan said: “The Cork City marathon is all about encouraging individuals of all levels and abilities to get involved — from first timers to professional athletes.”
The Cork marathon also incorporates a half marathon which will start at Victoria Road, near Kennedy Park, at 10.45am, an Inter-services championships, a team relay run and a youth challenge alongside the 26.2 mile distance. More than 7,000 people are expected to taking part, between all the events.
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