Masters International Stormont Belfast 17th November 2007.

Valley athlete leads Ireland to Team gold

Finn Valley team captain Kieran Carlin led Ireland to a historic team victory in the annual masters cross-country international at Stormont on Saturday. Finishing second in his O35 category he had an outstanding run which will give him great encouragement for the road and cross country races ahead.

The former Ulster champion was in buoyant mood after the event. Joining him in that age bracket was Letterkenny athlete Gary Crossan and Valley's Jon Creane. It marked the only age group team victory for Ireland in an event normally as was the case once again overall victory for England.

Other performances from Valley masters was the contribution of both James Mc Mahon and Dominic Bonner to the Irish 0ver 45 team in silver medal position.

Now that this event is over the serious challenge of winning the national title exists and due to their recent success Valley as always are the team to beat but the outcome needs to be a positive golden variety to be sufficient.

This weekend it's a 1:30pm start for transport leaving Valley for underage and senior nationals with five teams and numerous individuals listed to challenge.

The usual reminder goes out to all young and old to plan for the St. Stephens' day 5k and the realisation of hopefullly 500 starters; walkers, joggers and runners all welcome. Full details www.finnvalleyac.com.

Neil Martin and Patsy Mc Gonagle attended the AAI annual awards on Saturday night which was a tremendous night for the sport in what has been a great year all round.