The dedication and hard work of Ennis Track AC’s European champions has been hailed after the club enjoyed one of its greatest ever days.
Ennis Track claimed the under 20 men’s title at the European club cross country championships in Lisbon, Portugal last weekend. On a day to remember, twin brothers Dean and Dylan Casey led Ennis to the gold medal. Dean finished first, just ahead of Dylan in second, while there were top 20 finishes for teammates Mark Hanrahan and Niall Murphy. Cian O’Boyle and Thomas McGuire were also part of the six strong team that travelled to Portugal.
Maureen Casey, Ennis Track PRO, said the win is just reward for the team’s efforts over a difficult few years. “They’ve trained really well and have been so careful with regards to covid and minding themselves. It was a super achievement, absolutely brilliant and all under the guidance of their coach Pat Hogan. I could talk forever about Pat and all the work he’s put in. They’re a fierce, great bunch of lads, very committed and very grounded. They train hard and they’re always focused on the next race. They just love running. It’s always about the next race with them,” Maureen said.
“They have a great team around them: Marie Roche; Ita Hanrahan; Ger Casey and of course Pat Hogan. And this is all under the guidance of Gerry Hayes (club president) who got all of this going 30 years ago, Maureen added. Seeing her sons Dean and Dylan guide Ennis Track to European glory made the achievement extra special for Maureen.
“It does. I’ve had the highs and the lows with them but they are part of a great team. They’re a very focused bunch. Mark (Hanrahan) was injured just before Christmas and he got back and ready to run in a European final. It just shows the kind of dedication they have”. She continued, “They love what they are doing. It’s their life, their focus. They always knew they were capable of going well but for them to produce those performances was just brilliant. To have four places in the top 20 is just brilliant”.
And even if they were so inclined, the team don’t have time to rest on their laurels. It’s back to the cut and thrust of competition at the North Munster schools finals in Clarecastle on Thursday, February 10. After the cross country season ends, the club will then switch attention to track and field.
