Ritzenheim praying for rain to sink Cragg’s challenge at Stormont
The American strode out of the blue to defeat some classy Africans last year, and while Irish star Alistair Craggs is in the field, he fancies his chances.
“It was great last year, and I think I’ll have a fair chance again. I feel really fit,” said Ritzenheim.
“However, it’s a stronger field than last year, and Alistair is a threat.”
Cragg will be the top Irish contender now that Donegal’s Gary Murray has pulled out with a knee injury, and Ritzenheim knows his form.
“I’ve raced against Alistair many times in America where he is based, and he will be a very strong competitor,” said the American number one.
“But it’s great to come back here.
“People were so good to me and this city has a special meaning,” said Ritzenheim, who is hoping the Irish weather will take a turn for the worse.
“I’m a true cross-country runner.
“I enjoy the slop as I can get power out there on that type of course.
“I hope that it’s as terrible as possible as it will take a lot of people out the race,” said Ritzenheim, who sees the longer distance on the roads as his future.
“I have had most of my success in cross-country, but I see my future in the marathon.
“I have to put in a few good years out on the track first, and then move up.”
The Africans will again be to the fore again at Stormont, with last year’s third
-placed Barnabas Kosgei back for another shot.
The women’s race which was held over a 5.6km course, sees 2004 African 5000m champion Kidane heading a strong Ethiopian trio.
Derebe Alemu and Ashu Kasim will be hoping to give their country a clean sweep of the podium places but, just like in the men’s race, many eyes could be on an Irish challenger.
Jolene Byrne made a big impression with her front-running tactics last year before finishing fifth, and the World Student Games 5000m bronze medallist has already won the Irish Inter-Counties Cross-Country title this winter.
Cristelle Daunay has already helped France to team bronze at the European Cross Country Championships this winter, while British four-mile road record-holder Kate Reed will also be looking for a good run.
The men’s race starts at 2.45pm, with the ladies race getting under way at 2.02pm.
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