Floodlights, cameras, and bustling crews greeted Clonliffe members as they arrived at the stadium on Thursday night; the familiar track suddenly transformed into a buzzing film set for an upcoming TV series. The air crackled with curiosity and excitement as runners and supporters alike paused to take in the surreal scene. With the production team poised around the infield, the Grand Prix 800m races took on an extra sparkle, knowing that once the final club event was run and won, the stadium would step straight from athletics arena to screen-ready set.
Outcome of 800m races
The 800m is one of the most exciting races, not a sprint and somewhat short to be classed as fully middle distance. Thirty-two runners entered this premier event. Three races were held to accommodate entrants. Maurice Ahern was the starter for all three races.
- In the first race Mark Glitz had the fastest time of the night winning in 0:02:10. Ray Dunne was second in a time of 0:02:14 and Mick McMahon was third on 0:02:19.
- In the second race Garret Enright won in 0:02:35, Emma Przymusinska was second with in 0:02:38. While Natalia Lungo, making her debut in the Grand Prix, had a time of 0:02:42.
- In the third race Cara Compos had an outstanding run on the night clocking 0:02:33, the fastest woman’s time of the night. In second place was Piotr Szelest clocking 0:02:47 and in third place with an impressive performance was Dave Reilly in 0:02:56.
Grand Prix result
Given that the Grand Prix is a handicap event, whoever was to win the Grand Prix on Thursday night would have to put in a superb performance. The runner who did just that was Cara Compos. She had the fastest time of the night and won the Grand Prix and the Richie Barr Trophy. In second place and improving with every race was Ray Dunne. In third place was Matt Glitz who had the fastest time.
Cara Compos – 66 points
Ray Dunne – 65 Points
Matt Glitz – 64 points
Post race prizing giving
Richie Barr was on hands to present the prizes for this 800m event which he sponsors. Liam Hennessey thanked Richie for his sponsorship. He also thanked all the who officiated and provided the post-race refreshments. Many thanks to all who competed on the night.
Upcoming races
Thursday 6th August ‘26 – Pat O Hara 3000m – Morton Stadium
Thursday 20th August – Cooper/Lawler Plate 5000m – Morton Stadium