Published: Wednesday, 4th August, 2010 5:00pm

Almost 350 athletes take part in triathlon

by Sinead Hogan

Pic by==: 97

The first Attracta Doherty Memorial Pink 'N' Gold Triathlon saw a total of 349 men and women run, swim and cycle in and around Lough Ramor last Sunday in what the family of the late Attracta described as "a fitting tribute".

The success of the event has affirmed the event as an annual one, according to Leontia Brady, Ballyjamesduff-resident sister of the late Attracta.

"We have a course record set and this event is definitely going to be annual. It was a great day. There was a fantastic atmosphere," said Leontia, who completed the cycle and aims to improve her time and take on the entire three-fold challenge next year.

"I know Attracta was looking down on us because it was sunny and warm for the event. It was raining an hour before the starting time, but it stopped and didn't rain for the rest of the day."

The triathlon, in aid of cancer organisations and in memory of Leontia's beloved sister, consisted of a 750m swim, 20km cycle and 5km on foot, with an easier option for those less fit. All funds are to go to cancer organisations, the Cavan and Monaghan palliative home care service and the Mater Hospital Oncology Unit.

The event attracted interest from Cavan and the surrounding counties, as well as from further afield.

Overall winner Dessie Duffy, Muff, Canningstown set the course record with a time of 102.57 minutes; Marie Boland, Enfield, Co. Meath, won female first, with a time of 109.20 minutes; the elite team first place was won by a team from Dun Ui Neill Barracks in Cavan (Timmy Condon, Michael Price and Peter Walsh). Junior winners were: (female) Teresa Mulroe, Emyvale, Co. Monaghan, (male) Paul Boothman, Celbridge, Co. Kildare and (team) Jennifer Hetherson, Damien O'Reilly and Keith Soden, all from Munterconnacht. There was also recognition for outstanding performance by local athletes, Ouray McBride, Ballyjamesduff (106.03 minutes) and Ouray's mother, Kitty McBride, who came in with personal best at 145.42 minutes.

Sports commentator and former Armagh captain, Jarlaith Burns, representing St. Paul's School, Bessbrook, Newry, Co. Down, where Attracta was the first pupil to enrol, was a guest speaker on Sunday, along with Mickey Malin, Newry Triathlon Club, who has done over 40 triathlons.

Organisers wanted to thank sponsors: The Lakeside Manor. Skoda Cars in Navan, the Lavey Inn, Quickpick in Ballyjamesduff, Rodney's Centra, Ballyjamesduff, McCabe's Bar and Lounge in Ballyjamesduff, Kiernan's Service Station on Dublin road, Cavan; also stewards, Meath River Rescue team and Ramor Water Sports Club.

"This event would not have taken place without race director John Wilson, secretary Kevin Doherty, treasurer Emma McConnell and all the committee members. We would like to thank everybody who supported the event," said Leontia.

A wife and mother of three, Attracta was aged 56 when she died from breast cancer about two years ago. Her family, including husband Kevin Doherty, have organised this triathlon in her memory.

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