Kelly and Kerley tops in Phoenix Park

Keith Kelly and Pauline Kerley took top placings today in the annual adidas Irish Runner Challenge five mile race at the Phoenix Park.

With the biggest field yet in the event, Keith Kelly from Drogheda was first across the line to claim the winning spot in a fantastic time of 23.37.

Pre-race favourite Killian Lonergan of Raheny took second place with a time of 23.53. Gerry Ryan took third place in 25.00.

The Women's Challenge saw Pauline Kerley of Tullamore reclaim her title in her personal best time of 27.08. Pauline won the first adidas Irish Runner Challenge back in 2002 and was favourite today.

Annette Kealy (29.03) and Sinead Jennings (30:02) were 2nd and 3rd respectively in the Women’s Challenge.

Previous two time Challenge winner Catherina McKiernan was on hand to get the race officially underway today.

There was a total field of 2,227 runners, joggers and walkers, a significant increase of entries on 2004. Due to the demand at registration, the race was delayed by 15 minutes allowing organizers time to make sure everyone could run.

“The race has just grown and grown in popularity since the inaugural race back in 2002,” said organiser Frank Greeley, editor of Irish Runner.

“It’s a beautiful day and a great time to see so many people out enjoying running. We broke 2,000 last year and we were happy but to see a big increase again for 2005 has been fantastic!”