International Selection and Team Gold for Finn Valley

National Juvenile C-C

Ian Ward topped a great day for Valley at Athlone I.T. when he finished 3rd in U-16 boys event; this was his best individual performance this season and he led his team to victory with 9 points to spare from Clonliffe. This result led him to be invited to compete for Ireland U-17 next month. The story of the U-l6 boys team is remarkable; they have won each of their National challenges since U-11 and are undefeated in Ireland in 6 years as a group. On duty last weekend were Ward (3rd) a student at Royal and Prior, Darren McGlinchey, 20th, a student at St.Columba's, Aiden Connolly, 25th, a student at Omagh C.B.S and Shane Bonner a student at Deele College. Also in support Ryan McDaid (injured) and Michael Penrose. The link in all of this success story is Castlefin coach Peader McGranaghan. Peader has adopted a no nonesense strong training ethic throughout these years which has engendered a positive response; a share in the congratulations are due to him.

The team success story had begun earlier in the day with the U-12 boys getting in ahead of Monaghan Phoenix led by Mark Bonner Stranorlar 5th Dean Bonner Convoy 13th and Justin Browne Killygordon 39th with keen support from Oisin Merritt Ballybofey and Gary O'Donnell Stranorlar, they did the business. In the opening race of the day Rebecca Ward Liscooley was back in the medals with a gutsy display to grab the bronze. The U-14 girls failed in their quest for medals despite a good lead run by the talented Karen Ferguson 11th -- the team finishing 5th. Well done Cranford who took silver team U-12.

Christmas Events

This Thursday evening there is a children's party from 8-9.30 p.m. for younger athletes and their friends with the youth group getting together at 9.30-11.30 p.m. The senior members, parents etc. have their Christmas dinner at the Centre on Friday night at 9 p.m. A reminder to all to turn out for the 35th annual 5K on Boxing Day 2 p.m. in aid of Special Olympics and Donegal Action for Breast Cancer. This is a family community occassion and everyone is encouraged to participate whether running or walking. Encourage a friend to come along and bring along a small present. Presentation and refreshments afterwards in the club house. It's a marvellous opportunity to meet in a relaxed fromat at this time.

European Championship C-C

Well done to club coach Patsy McGonagle and his Irish athletes for returning such a committed performance in Tilburg at the weekend and to local man Gary Murray on such a wonderful run to 12th in the men's race.

Sportshall

This weekend the Donegal Board are holding trials for County U-l3 and U-15 Sportshall teams at the Abbey Vocational at 12 noon.

Newsletters by Niall McGonagle, Club P.R.O.