Published: Wednesday, 14th July, 2010 5:00pm

Castlepollard gears up for Annual 5k Road Race

The Castlepollard annual 5k road race - the eighteenth - is taking place on August 4, and following on last year's turnout of 300 adults and 80 juveniles, the organisers are planning for an even better race this year.

For the first time, there will be electronic chip timing in place, which will give all results within minutes of the race finish.

In the juniors events under 20, 17, and 15 there will be 3/4 prizes in each age group and of course there will be some great prizes for first four local men and ladies, local if you are from the North Westmeath area, Castlepollard, Finea, Coole, Whitehall, Fore or Collinstown. There are also prizes for the first two walkers in (ladies and gents).

A commerative medal will be given to all race entrants and post race drinks (water) will be provided. The traffic-free 5k race route will be through the grounds of Tullynally Castle, for which thanks are extended to patron Thomas Pakenham for having opened the scenic grounds of the Castle for the event over the past years.

The runners will be marshalled by the Castlepollard Motorbike Club who do a great job each year in providing 6/7 outriders. The juvenile short races under 7, 9, 11 and 13 around the Square will take place at 7 p.m. with medals drinks and bars for all entrants.

The entry fee for Seniors and Masters is €12; and for under 20s, €6. For further info, contact Andy at 087-2061081.