Fond memories as Ballycotton 10 race finally runs its course

For so many years it shone like a beacon above its rivals but then, in a flicker, it was gone.

On Thursday evening, word filtered through that the lights had gone out for the final time on the Ballycotton 10-mile road race and, suddenly, the Irish road-running scene seems a much darker place.

For a much-loved race of international renown, one which had always thrived on the personal touch, the statement announcing its demise seemed an incongruous way to reach the finish.