Mary Cullen to run in KBC Asset Management St Patrick’s Festival 5k Race

From: Eamonn Coghlan
March 13, 2009

Fresh from her great success in winning a bronze medal in the European Indoor Championships, Mary Cullen has entered the KBC Asset Management St Patrick’s Festival 5k Road Race which takes place on Sunday, March 15^th at 12:00 noon.

Race Director and President of the promoting club, Metro St Brigid’s A.C., Eamonn Coghlan, was ecstatic to receive the news of her entry. “Having Mary in the race provides the public an opportunity to see her in action for the first time after her medal winning performance. It gives people an opportunity to run or walk with Ireland’s latest athletics star, especially, during the celebration of our national holiday.”

Asked about her first run in Ireland, Mary said, “I am delighted to race in the KBC Asset Management St Patrick’s Festival 5k so soon after the Europeans. It will feel like a real homecoming and I hope people will come out and support this great race in our Capital City.”

The race starts and finishes at the Mansion House on Dawson Street and winds its way through the streets of Georgian Dublin. Dublin’s Lord Mayor Eibhlin Byrne will act as the official starter and make a special presentation to Mary on behalf of Dublin City Council.

Mary’s main rivals are Deirdre Byrne the defending champion, who finished 11^th in the European Indoor behind Mary. Stiff opposition should come from Linda Byrne, winner of last week's Irish Intervarsity cross country title and National Cross Country Champion Maria McCambridge.

The race is open to everyone, no matter what level of fitness. You can enter on Sunday as late entries will be accepted up to 11:00am in the Mansion House.

In addition, Athletics Ireland will host “The Mc Donald’s The Little Athletics Challenge” for children between the ages of 5 to 11. Mom’s and Dad’s who wish to run in the 5k can feel secure that their children will be entertained and might be identified as future athletics champions!