JOHN BUCKLEY SPORTS/MUNSTER TEN-MILE

SPRING CLASSICS SERIES 2010

For the eight successive year runners will have the opportunity to partake in the John Buckley Sports/Munster Ten-Mile Spring Classics Series as the four established races in the region from January to April once again combine forces in this unique Series.

In the cycling world, the 'Spring Classics' are an integral part of the competitive year and seen as instrumental in the build-up to the more arduous Tours later in the season.

The aim of this ten-mile Series is to promote each race at the classic distance of ten miles, while rewarding the runners who complete all four races with a specially commissioned long-sleeve T-shirt.

As well, there will be prizes for the top three leading male and female runners, decided on the cumulative times over the four races.

John Buckley Sports have again agreed to be overall sponsor of the Spring Series and if you wish to view their excellent website go to: www.johnbuckleysports.com

There is no additional entry fee for the Series - just run the four races (however - your entry must have been accepted for Ballycotton). Further details (including contacts) on the three races other than Ballycotton can be found below.

Kostal/MALLOW '10' - Sunday January 10th, 12.30pm.
Quantum Life/DUNGARVAN '10' - Sunday January 31st, 1.00pm
BALLYCOTTON '10' - Sunday March 21st, 1.30pm.
Sonny Murphy Memorial KILNABOY '10' - Sunday April 11th, 2.00pm.

Sunday January 10th: - Kostal/Mallow '10', 12.30pm.

Contact: John Holland 022-21280.
Mallow AC has been promoting a 10-mile race for a number of years over a nice flat loop comprising of town and country roads and it has met with unanimous approval. Mallow is also well served with a good road and rail network, making the venue very central for people traveling. Last year saw a record turnout of 572 finishers and the message this year is to arrive in plenty of time so that the organisers can cater for the even larger entry expected. The race has a new sponsor this year in Kostal. Details on www.mallowac.ie

Sunday January 31st: - Quantum Life/Dungarvan '10', 1.00pm.

Contact: James Veale 058-42059.
Formally a 10km race, the move to ten miles a few years ago proved to be a very successful one. A new course was introduced in 2004 and last there was a slight alteration to the start and finish although the main route remained the same. 2009 saw a huge turnout with a total of 895 finishers. The energetic West Waterford club has big plans for this race which is now their flagship event. Please note that the race starts at 1pm and pre-entries close on January 18th – details on www.westwaterfordathletics.org

Sunday April 11th:- Sonny Murphy Memorial Kilnaboy '10' (Co. Clare), 2.00pm.

Contact: Vincent McCarthy 065-6837875.
One of the oldest 'tens' in the country, outside of Ballycotton, the introduction of the Spring Series has certainly benefited this Clare race which also attracted a record 270 finishers in 2008.

The slightly undulating circuit on the outskirts of The Burren contains some stunning early spring scenery, passing through the tourist village of Corrofin. The race is also an idea opportunity to enjoy an early-season break in ideal outdoor surroundings. Also, like Mallow, there is a 10km walk which starts at 1.30pm.

The three races above are all organised by enthusiastic runners, so therefore you can be sure of a warm welcome and a well promoted event, with free refreshments and results.

Give them your support, they deserve it - and we also need to keep these races going at the classic distance of 10 miles on the road!