Torrential rain, intervals of bright sunshine and a cooling breeze were the weather conditions experienced by all competitors at the 2008 M. Donnelly sponsored Poc Fada Finals on Annaverna Mountain on Saturday, 2nd. August. Conditions underfoot were treacherous because of the heavy rainfall of the previous few days, but thankfully all Competitors and spectators safely completed the 5 km course. President Elect Christy Cooney, who traversed the Course, outgoing Camogie Ard Stiurthoir Sheila Wallace, Munster Chairman Jimmy Gorman, Poc Fada Chairman Donie Nealon were all present along with John Moley / P. McGinn and P. Mc Mahon from the Louth - Armagh Committee. Martin Donnelly (sponsor) was present also. Pat Hamilton (Louth) acted as M.C for the afternoon. Speakers thanked the organising Committee, Louth Civil Defence and the Competitors who once again made this unique event an enjoyable one over difficult terrain. Apart from Awards made to all Competitor there were Presentations made to Christy Cooney and Shelia Wallace. P. Martin piped in the Competitors and a cead mile failte was afforded to Dan McAuliffe from Milwaukee Hurling Club U.S.A., the first U.S competitor to compete in Poc Fada. The Committee appreciate the efforts of the local Hurling Clubs in Louth / Armagh who provided excellent "meitheals" to accompany the Competitors, Lucozade Ireland, McCanns Fruit, Value Cash & Carry who provided welcome refreshments for all. Toyota Ireland certainly saw their vehicles receive a thorough testing on the wet, slippery slopes of Annaverna Mountain. Competition sponsor Martin Donnelly was the overall sponsor of the M. Donnelly Poc Fada na hEireann for the 12th. Year in a row. Thanks also to local radio and press representatives who braved the course and provided great cover for the Poc Fada. Tweet

Most Read Stories