In light of the increasing number of refugees coming to Ireland from Ukraine we wish to issue a reminder that all refugees to Ireland from any country are very welcome to take up complimentary membership to train and race with Rathfarnham WSAF AC. This is in conjunction with Athletics Ireland offering complimentary membership and we would appreciate if this notice was shared around.

Our contact is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

2022 Fit4Life

Rathfarnham WSAF AC

Do you want to get back running?

Have you been running and are interested in learning about club running?

Ever wanted to know what Intervals are or what a Tempo run is?

Then you need to come and join us for our Fit4Life Programme. It starts on Tuesday 1^st March 2022 at 7.30pm in Loreto Park, Nutgrove and runs for 8 consecutive weeks. There will be a Park Run on April 2^nd.

It is only €40.00 which is payable online at:

https://www.athleticsrathfarnham.ie/membership/fit-for-life-membership.html

Fit4Life is suitable for anyone who has run before whether it is a little bit or more. All you need is a pair of runners and lots of enthusiasm. We will teach you the rest!

Big congratulations to Rathfarnham WSAF AC's Adam Jones on being presented with the Tadgh Lynch Memorial Award. The presentation was by Sean McMullan, President of Irish Masters Athletic association 2020/2021 at the National Masters Track& Field Championships in Santry on September 5th. For thoes who are unfamiliar with this award it is for services to masters athletics both on and of the field over the years! Previous recipients make up a who's who of Irish athletics. With some gentle persuasion Adam will allow you to have a close look at it! Well done Adam, you are a deserving recipient!!

Please note from this Saturday 31st July our track training session in Tallaght will be from 10.00AM until 11.00AM and not from 11.00AM till 12.00PM as before.

Many thanks to our own coach Adam Jones who rounded out our series of lectures at Rathfarnham WSAF AC this week. Everyone came away with wonderful nuggets of information from Adam's seemingly endless knowledge. Stretching, wellness, running style, body posture and aging were the topics covered in remarkable detail in one evening!

Many thanks to Brendan Hackett for a wonderful talk onMay 19th to all of us in Rathfarnham WSAF AC. The topic, 'Sports Psychology', is of interest to everyone who competes in any sport but everybody seemed to come away with at least a few nuggets of information to help drive our running performances to the next level. Thanks to Brendan we will all be working on our 4 c's in the coming months: Committment, confidence, control and concentration!

Performance nutrition was the title of the May 12th Rathfarnham WSAF AC lecture delivered by Daniel Davey. Daniel is the senior performance nutritionist for the Dublin Senior football team and Leinster rugby. He also works as a performance nutritionist with a host of elite athletes in a range of sports such as hockey, golf and athletics. We only seemed to scrape the surface of his knowledge in what proved to be a very informative evening with heaps of detailed running nutrition questions answered.

Our May 5th Rathfarnham WSAF AC talk was by double olympic 50k racewalker, strength and conditioning coach, sports scientist and researcher Colin Griffin. It was an evening packed with gems of training information and science that has motivated us all to push on with our S&C! Many thanks again to Colin for his wonderful presentation.

We had a super online presentation on Wednesday 27th April from Paul Stephenson to Rathfarnham WSAF AC members. Plenty of thoughts on the science and practicalities of endurance training with some great comments from some of our experienced members!

This is lecture 1 of a planned series to hopefully lead into a summer racing season.

We are delighted that Juvenile training is re-starting this week. This is for existing members only.

Please note that we are FULLY BOOKED FOR JUVENILES (8-12 year olds) FOR 2021. Please email our juvenile co-ordinator, Jackie at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you wouild like your child to be added to our waiting list.

With the continuing high levels of Covid-19 in the community all members are asked to continue to remind themselves to not ease up on any of the rules regarding training.

All club training sessions have ceased but continued individual exercise is recommended.

Exercise may be taken with no more than one other household group.

Maintain 2m distance from others at all times. This is very important on pavements and in parks now that there are more people out and about exercising.

Wear a mask indoors or if meeting someone.

Sanitise your hands regularly.

Stay safe everybody!

We regret to have to say that all athletics club training sessions, including underage training, have been cancelled because of the rising numbers of Covid-19 infections in the country. This, and all other restrictions, was announced by the government on 30th December and will remain in place until at least 1st February. Please adhere strictly to all the guidlines and stay safe until we get this virus under control.

The decision has been made to cancel this year's St.Stephen's day mince pie run. This follows the government's announcement that the country is to return to level 5 restrictions. Training is allowed to continue in pods of 15 following the previous rules but as the Mince Pie run is a social event holding it would not follow the spirit of the restrictions.
We all hope for more racing in 2021!

The management committee
Owen McLoughlin
Sue Ryan
John McCabe
Beth Neal
PJ Claffey
Denis Daly

An Taoiseach addressed the nation last night to announce that the country would be moving to level 5 restrictions in the Living with Covid plan. This will come into effect from midnight on Wednesday 21st October for 6 weeks. Club adult training sessions are no longer allowed under level 5 so the club has suspended all regular sessions starting with Thursday 22nd October. Training individually is permitted within a 5km radius of your home and you can meet outdoors with one other household for excercise purposes. We would encourage all our members to continue training but to stay within the rules in the guidelines. If we all do our bit we can lower the virus level to a point that our normal group training can re-commence. 

Juvenile/Junior training is permitted to continue with attendance allowed if the session is within 5km of your home. It is very important that strict adherence to social distancing rules is maintained to permit continuance of these sessions. The track in Tallaght is closed this weekend for the Bank Holiday. We have to wait for confirmation that Juveniles/Juniors will be allowed to continue to use the track. 

Stay safe everybody.

The management committee

THE FOLLOWING NOTE HAS BEEN SENT TO ALL CLUBS USING LORETO PARK SO WE ARE URGING OUR OWN MEMBERS TO THINK ABOUT SAFETY WHEN PARKING.

I am contacting you in relation to members who train in Loreto Park.

I am sure you have seen the recent traffic congestion on Barton Road East extension which has been caused by cars parking on cycle track. 

I have contacted both Ballinteer St. Johns and Leicester Celtic FC requesting that members are emailed and asked to refrain from parking on both sides of the road where one side is a cycle track.

There have been a few close calls with doors opening roadside and children crossing between parked cars.  Also the congestion hinders access to local estates by residents.  It also poses a threat for access by an emergency vehicles should the need arise.

Residents support the local clubs and amenities but we would like some consideration when members are parking in the area in the future in order to maintain good community relations.

We would be grateful for your cooperation in this matter.

Regards 

Kathleen Kelly 

Grange manor residents Association 

Following a meeting of the clubs management committee, it has been decided that the general area of the Loreto clubhouse and the clubhouse in Rathfarnham village will remain closed for official club training, for the Winter 2020 and the early part of 2021. With the current social distancing rules very likely to remain during this period,  we would only be able to have 6 persons at any one time in the general areas of each clubhouse. In respect of Thursday circuit training, this low number would render the session impractical. On Tuesday nights, it would be very difficult to control and manage social distancing.
It has been decided to hold the circuit training sessions outdoors on Thursday nights in Loreto. We will ask the DLR to cut and maintain the grass in a suitable area and we will reposition the lights.
On both Tuesday and Thursday nights, only the Ladies/Mens changing rooms and toilets in the Loreto clubhouse will remain open. It will be important that social distancing protocols are followed and that members do not congregate in the kitchen/hallway area.
We are aware that these restrictions are difficult for coaches and members but in light of Covid-19, the safety and well-being of our members and club officials/coaches is of paramount importance.
We will duly inform all members of this decision.

The Management Committee:

John Mc Cabe
Owen Mc Loughlin
Beth Neal
Denis Daly
Suzanne Ryan
PJ Claffey

The national masters track and field championships are going ahead on the 6th of September. Entries are now open . Each athlete can do  only one event. If  anyone wants to complete email Adam before 8pm this Thursday 27th August.

Training Times for Adult sessions at our various locations (subject to change)

For Juvenile sessions go to the ''Juvenile/Junior" page.

Tuesday Adult Session - Loreto Park, Nutgrove

Time of Sessions: 18:00 onwards 

Location specific rules: There will be separate start points and pods of 6.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Thursday Circuits Session - St. Enda's Park

Time of session: 18:30

Location specific rules: There will be one session of 15 people to start with.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK 

Saturday Adult Session - Tymon Park

Time of Session: 10am

Meet near the playground

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Saturday Adult Session- Tallaght Track Session

Time of Sessions: 11am 

Location specific rules: Places will be allocated by coaches.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Please read and strictly abide by the Covid training rules below

Most people know by now that because of the Covid-19 pandemic there are strict rules that apply to all athletic club sessions which must be complied with to ensure the safety of all our members and the general public. The nature of the rules is dictated by the HSE/government guidelines and the AAI Covid-19 guidance documents, and are subject to constant change. This document does not override any of this national guidance but applies them to our club.

The most important points are that all sessions must now, without exception, be pre-booked, have a check for Covid symptoms and have everybody strictly adhering to the booked training time. We will try to keep athletes updated regularly on the club website and social media. The following guidelines must be read by all club members before booking a session and must be adhered to.

• At present a maximum of 15 people can gather for a training session (including athletes and coaches). Multiple sessions can be held but must be separated.

• A local rule by DLR requires us to limit our pod size to 6 people in Loreto Park on Tuesdays and Marlay Park on Sundays. This is irrespective of Government allowing 15 per pod but we can have multiple separate 6 people pods.

• Training is strictly restricted for now to senior and masters athletes who are fully paid up 2021 members of Rathfarnham WSAF AC and who agree completely with the AAI guidance.
• Club training is only open to those residing within the country.
• Training can only take place where full social distancing is possible.
• All Coaches and athletes must agree to comply with all aspects of the training protocols. Anyone who breaches the protocols will be asked to leave the session immediately.
• A record of all who attend training must be kept by the club for tracing. It is now mandatory to book into a training session beforehand. We have set up a booking system on the Eventbrite App and links will be organised for the sessions. Please ensure that your contact details are always up to date.
• Booking will only be allowed a week in advance. There will be limited places initially so you are asked to book no more than two sessions a week.
• Athletes cannot turn up ad hoc without booking or arrive instead of someone else. If they do they will be turned away because it is mandatory to keep records for contact tracing.
• Swapping groups at a training session is strictly forbidden
• If you book a session it is taken that you agree to be compliant with all Covid-19 prevention checks and protocols.
• Athletes should arrive on time, warmed up and ready to start their training session. Timekeeping is important to ensure there is no overlapping of groups where there are multiple sessions.
• Try and warm up away from the training area and also maintain social distancing rules.
• Do not attend the session if you have had any of the symptoms of Covid-19 in the previous 14 days. These symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, malaise, diarrhoea or loss of sense of taste and smell. If you have these symptoms please contact your GP for advice.
• Do not attend the session if you or any of your close contacts were suspected of having or tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 14 days.
• Do not attend the session if you have been recommended to cocoon.
• If athletes are bringing their own hand sanitiser, face masks, towels or any equipment to training please do not share them.
• Make sure your water bottle is carefully labelled or identifiable and do not share it.
• Hands should be washed before leaving for training

• Athletes should arrive changed or change in their own car. Athletes should travel to the training session alone, or only with a member of the same household.

• Toilet facilities will be open in the Loreto clubhouse on Tuesday evenings but for emergency use only. Please visit the toilet before leaving home.
• Social distancing of 2 meters must be strictly observed at all times between individual members of the training group and between members of the training group and the general public. It has been asked that there be no spitting. There can be no physical contact between the members of the training group and hands should be sanitised if there is any contact with objects.
• Care must be taken of other park users. Run on the left and pass on the right. Use the grass when necessary to maintain social distancing. Please ensure that you give other users adequate space.
• Everyone must be sure to use the now widely publicised correct cough and sneeze etiquette at all times.
• If an individual is injured or becomes ill only one person should attend to them and they should be isolated. The Coaches have access to First Aid kits which contain face masks and disposable gloves. These must be worn by the attending person and any assisting person if that is necessary.
• The post of Rathfarnham WSAF AC’s appointed Covid Safety Officer has very kindly been taken up by PJ Claffey. The Covid Safety Officer has responsibility for managing issues and queries relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. He can be contacted by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if there are any issues, concerns or protocol breaches to be reported by email.
• Covid compliance officers will also be appointed to assist the Covid safety officer at individual sessions to ensure adherence to protocols and address breaches immediately.
• You must follow the instructions of the coach or compliance officer at all times.
• The Coaches/Covid officers inform people about compliance protocols but it is the individual’s personal responsibility to be aware of and to comply with these protocols.
• There will be a roll call, briefing and Covid screening questioning before each session. This is why punctuality is essential.
• If any equipment or objects are used during training they must be cleaned with disinfectant wipes. Use of training equipment is restricted for now.
• When training finishes athletes must leave promptly and not hang around in groups.
• Check the club website for all updates

Before each training session you will be asked the following screening questions:

• Have you had Covid-19 in the last 14 days?
• Have you been in contact with anybody diagnosed with Covid-19 or who is suspected of having Covid-19 in the last 14 days?
• Have you had any of the symptoms of Covid-19 in the last 14 days? These include fever, cough, shortness of breath, feeling unwell with flu like symptoms, diarrhoea or loss of sense of taste and smell.
• Are you cocooning or are you in a high risk health category for Covid-19.

If you answer yes to any of these questions please do not attend the session or leave immediately if you are present.

Covid Update regarding Juvenile training

Juvenile training for ages 8-12 years old will hopefully restart in September dependent on the Government and AAI advice

It is hoped that Junior athletes ages 13-17 will restart some training at the end of June/start of July. Coaches will inform athletes when a restart is possible and it is again dependent on our ability to comply with Government and AAI advice.

We are all delighted that mandatory covid rules and restrictions were removed. Indoor training activities are permitted to take place. Covid is however still around and still poses a threat which thankfully is currently a small one.

As recommended by Sports Ireland we are maintaining overarching basic protective measures. These include the use of COVID 19 Officers, recommending symptomatic individuals do not participate in or attend sporting activities, the ongoing promotion of good respiratory & hand hygiene along with the wearing a face coverings in relevant settings.

A local rule by DLR continues to require runners to limit training group sizes to 6 people in Loreto Park and Marlay Park. This is irrespective of Government rules.

Please check the club website for all updates.

Enjoy the new freedoms!

The Management Committee

Rathfarnham WSAF AC

As many of you are aware the Government published its “Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business” last night. This is the first indicator of when we could possibly get back to some athletics club activity. Well done to all our club members who quickly adopted the social distancing advice since club training ceased in March and let us all continue to do so.  As you all know, the Taoiseach has cautioned that progress and timing of re-opening various aspects of society is dependent on controlling the numbers of Covid 19 cases and will only be done under the expert guidance of CMO, Dr. Tony Holohan, and the Covid 19 National Public Health Emergency Team.

The first exciting news from the roadmap for us is that from Tuesday 5^th May the distance we can exercise from our homes has been extended from a 2km to a 5km radius. The mathematicians amongst you will work that out to be a 6.25 times bigger area to run in!

The next positive thing is that phase 2 of the plan, scheduled for June 8^th, should allow small numbers to train together provided social distancing is maintained.

And finally, though not yet confirmed, it looks like the wearing of facemasks outdoors will be advised for all for the foreseeable future from May 18^th. In athletics we will take the tongue in cheek positive view that this is a form of altitude training that may on the long term result in many PB’s and records set later in the year!

The Rathfarnham 5k is still planned for Sunday September 27^th. If it goes ahead it could be in huge demand after a summer of no racing! The AAI will publish any necessary guidance on protocols they receive from the HSE or NPHET.

In the meantime the excitement of our club virtual racing relays, which has re-invigorated many club members, will continue over the summer.

Take care everybody and keep distancing and handwashing.

In light of the continuing development of the Covi-19 outbreak all Rathfarnham WSAF AC training sessions that have not already been cancelled are to cease until the 29th March. Continued training is encouraged but only under the condition of maintaining the recommended social isolation. Good luck to everybody in this difficult time.

Do you want to get back running?

Have you been running and are interested in learning about club running?

Ever wanted to know what Intervals are or what a Tempo run is?

Then you need to come and join us for our Fit4Life Programme. It starts on Tuesday 11th February 2020 at 7.30pm in Loreto Park, Nutgrove and runs for 8 consecutive weeks.

It is only €40.00 which is payable online by Clicking on the link HERE

Fit4Life is suitable for anyone who has run before whether it is a little bit or more.

All you need is a pair of runners and lots of enthusiasm. We will teach you the rest!

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Rathfarnham WSAF AC is to be held on Thursday 24th October 2019 at 8.30 p.m. in the Clubhouse, The old courthouse, Main Street, Rathfarnham Village. All members are encouraged to attend.

Brian Rankin

Club Secretary

For copy of Club Constitution and Rules click here

Training for juveniles aged 8-12 resumes on Monday 9th and Wednesday 11th September 6:30-7:30pm in the grounds of Rathfarnham Castle. 

Welcome back everybody!

Congratulations to Rathfarnham WSAF AC’s Stephen Gaffney on being selected to represent Ireland at the European Team Championships on the 4x100m relay team. The championships are being held in Sadnes, Norway from 9-11 August 2019. Best of Luck Stephen!

Please note that online entries are now open for this year's Rathfarnham 5k on Sunday 28th April at 10.00. Enter now on the Rathfarnham 5k website and reserver your place in a high quality race on one of the fastest 5k routes in Ireland. To be ready for race day please use the 8 week training programme on the site or join us at the Club at any of our training sessions. A series of Juvenile races (8 - 14) take place before the main 5k. Please contact our Juvenile Coaching Manager John McHugh for details. Enter today at www.rathfarnham5krun.ie.

We are delighted to announce that yet again Fit4Life has been totally sold out.

All available places on the 2019 course are now taken.

New members to the club are of course still very welcome

2019 Fit4Life

Rathfarnham WSAF AC

Do you want to start running?

Have you started running and are interested in learning about club running?

Ever wanted to know what Intervals are or what a Tempo run is?

Then you need to come and join us for our Fit4Life Programme. It starts on Tuesday 29th January 2019 at 7.30pm and runs for 8 consecutive weeks.

It is only €30.00 which is payable online at CLICK HERE

https://www.athleticsrathfarnham.ie/membership/fit-for-life-membership.html

Fit4Life is suitable for everyone, men and women, of all abilities.

All you need is a pair of runners and lots of enthusiasm. We will teach you the rest!

Notice of Rathfarnham WSAF AC 2018 AGM.

The Rathfarnham WSAF AC AGM will take place on Monday the 10th December at 8:30pm in the Club House, Main St., Rathfarnham.

All members are encouraged to attend.

Please forward any motions or nominations to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Great photo of Helen Carr courtesy of Eoin Fegan

'A Golden Era 2', a rich history of Irish athletics has just been published. It is Michael Gygax's second book about sucessful Irish Masters athletes. We are proud of our athletes who feature in this book, namely Paul Fleming, Barry Minnock and Donna Mahon. Sean Hehir features in a piece on his mother Cushla. PJ Claffy, Eoin McLoughlin and Zoe Melling have contributed to this inspirational and entertaining work. 

The book can be obtained from the author directly or both Paul Fleming and Barry Minnock have copies at €20 each.

Juvenile Training for 8 -12 year olds resumes after the summer break on Mon 10th & Weds 12th Sept, from 6:30 - 7:30pm in the grounds of Rathfarnham Castle.

Juvenile training is now on summer break and will resume on

Monday 10th September

Enjoy the break everyone!

By Owen McLoughlin

The South Dublin Primary Schools Cross Country took place in St. Enda’s Park on April 12^th. This was the 15^th year of the event and it has grown exponentially. There were over 300 in the girls’ race and 270 in the boys. The girls’ race is the largest of its kind in the country and is hosted by Rathfarnham WSAF AC and Scoil Mhuire NS, Ballyboden. Brian Rankin has kindly given sponsorship to this event in recent years. The girls’ race was won by Zoe Ritchie with her sister Jodie in 3^rd place. This was an incredible achievement as they were running against the best children in the county. Ryan O Neill was 3^rd in the boys’ race followed closely behind by Cathal Keogh in 4^th position. Both of their performances were excellent. Cathal was first scorer for his school (Ballyroan BNS) who took the gold team medals for the first time this century and wrested the trophy from St. Brigid’s Foxrock. Ryan contributed towards team silver for his school, St. Mary’s BNS (Grange Road). Thanks to the volunteer stewards from the club who gave of their time and to the staff of Scoil Mhuire who co-ordinated the whole event. All in all it was a great occasion with soft conditions underfoot!  

Some photos!            

Cathal Keogh in the red top!

Ryan O'Neill leads out 270 boys!

Zoe Richie leads out the girls!

By Sue Ryan

This year Fit4Life started a little later than usual but it was nicely timed to finish just before Easter week. Well earned Easter eggs.
Big numbers signed up this year so we added an additional coach to the sessions. This enabled the group to break into three different pace groups. 
We run Fit4life as an introduction to club running. It is an eight week programme, once a week. Each week we do different types of speed sessions, like we do at a club session. Explaining the importance of pacing and recovery. We did 400’s, 1k's, 1miles, pyramids, hill repeats and a few Parkruns for good measure.
It was a very focused and determined group and weren’t going to let The Beast of the East stop them from their Tuesday session. We wouldn’t let it stop them either! So the Tuesday before “The Curfew” we did a longer warm-up and ran our interval session as usual. However the week after was different. When all the snow seemed to have vanished from everywhere else, the paths in Loreto Park in Nutgrove were still impassable. No one told us there was a localised Red Weather Warning there!  So we moved onto a small patch of grass, had a great session and kept our feet dry too.
No one stops Rathfarnham AC athletes, even guest ones, from running.
Congratulations and well done to everyone who took part and challenged themselves. We admire your commitment to the eight weeks despite seriously cold weather. You all did great. A warm welcome to those who are continuing their training with us as full members of the club.
A big thank you to all in the club who volunteered and offered to help, we couldnt have run Fit4Life without you. You all added greatly with your own knowledge and experience.
Lets do it again next year!
Sue

Editor's note: Massive congratulations to Sue and her crew for brilliant organisation! 

Tallaght track remains closed for training on Saturday 10th March.

Unfortunately tonight's Monday Juvenile training has had to be cancelled because there is still snow and ice in the park.

Saturday Track Training Session, which was to be at 11am in Tallaght has been cancelled due to the closure of the track because of the ice and snow.

In the interest of safety for all, PE in Clubhouse tomorrow, Thursday 1st March, has been cancelled. 
Keep up your exercises in front of the fire at home!!

Juvenile Training in Rathfarnham Castle on Wednesday 28th February 2018 is cancelled due to the snow!

Most of the adult section of the club attended the Rathfarnham WSAF AC  Annual dinner and Awards Ceremony for 2017 held at Grange Golf Club, Rathfarnham on Saturday 13th January 2018. Highlight of the evening was a delighted and ever popular Louis McCarthy receiving the O'Driscoll Cup for Athlete of the year. A great and late night was had by all!

FOR MORE PHOTOS CLICK HERE

Do you want to start running?

Have you started running and are interested in learning about club running?

Ever wanted to know what Intervals are or what a Tempo run is?

Then you need to come and join us for our Fit4Life Programme. It starts on Tuesday 30th January 2018 at 7.30pm and runs for 8 consecutive weeks.

It is only €25.00 which is payable online at:  www.athleticsrathfarnham.ie

Fit4Life is suitable for everyone, men and women, of all abilities.

All you need is a pair of runners and lots of enthusiasm. We will teach you the rest!

Register Now!

The Annual Club Dinner and Awards Ceremony is fast approaching. It is the social highlight of the year and not to be missed by anybody. The venue preparations are already underway and quite a few of our multi-talented athletes have chosen to be part of the growing annual musical performance under the guidance of Master of Ceremonies Owen McLoughlin. (Contact Owen for the next rehersal)

Whether you are new to the club or a battle hardened racer it is a great chance to meet up casually outside the pressure of training! The date is set for Saturday 13^th January 2018 for dinner at 7:30pm. Same as last year, we are delighted to have Grange Golf Club as our venue. A delicious three course dinner is lined up at still only €25.00 per person, including wine.(Let me know about any dietary requirements) . Dress code is smart casual.

Everybody, either in the club or associated in any way are very welcome. Come on your own or bring the other half! Please rsvp asap to secure a place.  Email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., text me at 086-8306310, Whatsapp or FB messenger me!

Look forward to seeing the whole club there.

Denis Daly

Notice of Club AGM, Monday 11th December 2017

Dear All

This is a reminder to let you know that this year's Club Annual General Meeting is on Monday 11th December at 8.00 pm in the Clubhouse.  All positions on the Management Committee are open for nomination. The Management consists of the following positions:
 
1.      Finance Manager
2.      Administration Manager
3.      Coaching Manager
4.      Public Relations Manager
5.      Development Manager
6.      Events Manager
7.      President

If you want to nominate anyone for these posts or put a motion to the AGM, please E-mail Derek Bain at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Thursday 7th December. A copy of the Club's Constitution is in the Members part of the Club website. If you want a copy please email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you want to have a say in the running of the Club please come along.

Thanks for your support

Peter J. Claffey
Club President

Tuesday night's speed session in Loreto Park always has has a buzz about it with often up to 100 people doing intervals from 100m to 2k and everything inbetween, the chatter is ferocious in the recovery minutes and the long tempo people are there looping around and around in the backround. This Tuesday 16th May there was an extra buzz before training kicked off with a special presentation from the club to Seán Hehir in recognition of his fantastic achievement of qualifying for the marathon at the World Athletics Championships 2017 to be held in August in London. Following dissappointment last year after running the qualifying time but not being selected for the Rio Olympics, a determined Seán managed to up the ante this year to run a marathon PB to earn his qualification for the World Championships. Such dedication and determination is an inspiration to all athletes young and old. Best of luck to Seán in London. For anybody interested, a group from the club is heading over to support him and the rest of the irish marathon team running on August 6th. Ask at training if you want to join in!

Below is a copy of the email from Athletics Leinster confirming the Irish Team to compete at the
C.S.I.T. games in Riga, Latvia in June. Massive congratulations to Rathfarnham WSAF AC's Carla
Sweeney and Stephen Gaffney who have been selected, with Carla being the women's captain! 
Best of luck to the whole team.


The following athletes have been selected by Leinster Athletics to compete
as the Irish Team at the upcoming CSIT Games in Riga, Latvia from 13-18 June.
This is a major development initiative by Athletics Leinster to help
our athletes gain experience at international completion at a very
important stage in their athletics career. We would like to thank Athletics
Ireland for their financial support in registering Athletics Leinster with
CSIT and providing gear to the athletes. We would also like to thank all
Counties for their nominations which shows the calibre of athletes we have
in the Province. We would have liked to have brought more than 12 athletes
but we believe it's a major commitment from Athletics Leinster in our
athletes.

*The Team is*

Sophie Becker - 400m & 200m
Amy McTeggart  - HJ & Javelin
Carla Sweeney (Ladies Captain) - 800m
MaryAnn O'Sullivan - 1500m
Ciara Maguire - Hammer
Aoife Rochford - 200m & 100mH
Shane Fitzsimons (Men's captain) - 800m
John Fitzsimons – 400 & 800m
Adam Murphy -100m & 200m
Stephen Gaffney 100m & 200m
Stephen Rice - Javelin
Keith Marks - Long Jump

The Team Managers are Nicola Welsh & Fintan Reilly

Congratulations all
Yours In Sports,
Athletics Leinster Secretary
Mary Dwyer

Well done to Margaret and Sean Grehan who were honoured today for their 43 years of athletics volunteering with WSAF AC and Dublin Athletics, at a party in Grenhills today. Sean and Margaret were the driving force behind the many years of success at WSAF AC and were ever present with helping at many cross country and track events over the years. WSAF AC was a feeder Club for Rathfarnham WSAF AC until it was amalgamated with our Club earlier this year. A presentation was also made to Paul Fleming by the junior members of WSAF AC, for his many years support and coaching at the Club. Pictures of all who were at the party are on our Facebook site and in the Gallery. We wish Sean and Margaret good health and happiness into the future.

At the Clonliffe Harriers Christmas Cracker 5k today Sue Ryan was 1st W40. As the 2017 incoming women's captain, she is placing the bar high for the year!

Happy Christmas from all at Rathfarnham WSAF AC. Please note that the annual St. Stephen's day Mince Pie Run starts from the Clubhouse at Main Street, Rathfarnham at 10.00. Shake off the Christmas turkey and win the 'last to the top' perpetual plaque.

On Tuesday 27th December the changing rooms at Nutgrove Park will be available for use for those who want to train at 18.30.

A reminder that the Clubs Annual Dinner and Awards cermony is on Friday 20th January 2017 in the Grange Golf Club at 8.00. Please let Denis Daly  know if you want to reserve a place.

The annual AGM will be held on Monday12th December 2016 at 8.00pm. The meeting will take place in the Clubhouse. Please forward any motions, nominations etc. to me (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) by the 2nd December 2016.

Well done to Clare Sullivan who ran a very strong race to win the Ladies Novice Cross Country Championships in the Phoenix Park yesterday. Clare was up with the leading pack from the start and made her break for victory up the long straight to the finish. Meanwhile in the mens novice race Robert Murphy equally kept with the leading pack over the 6,000m course and finished strongly to come in second. Robert led his team home to the gold medal position and was supported by Eoin McLoughlin 8th, Donagh Powell 12th and Neil Bolger 13th. Other finishers from the Club were Aaron Brown 32nd, Greg Byrne 35th, Neil Skelton 36th and Oisin Bowland 82nd. The ladies team finished 5th. Clare was supported by Lynne Hennessy 5th, Suzanne Ryan 22nd and Una Rice 56th. The full results are on the Dublin Athletics Board website and pictures of all who ran are in the Gallery and on our Facebook site at Rathfarnham AC. Well done to all. Click on the pictures below to get to either Gallery.

Clare on her way to victory and Robert running in for second.

Gold medal winning team

Ladies Novice team.

Well done to all 904 finishers in today’s New Ireland Rathfarnham 5k Run out of 1,080 entrants. In dry, sunny but blustery conditions we had a very close battle up front with Mark Christie from Mullingar Harriers just edging out Freddy KERON Sittuk, Raheny Shamrocks in an identical time of 14.26. Brian Maher, Kilkenny was third. In the ladies race Laura Shaughnessy, DSD, won in 16.30, Siobhan O’Doherty, Borrisokeane was second in 16.42 and Caroline Crowley, Crusaders, third in 16.45. Sam Allen, Donore Harriers won the junior men’s race in 16.02 and Carla Sweeney, Rathfarnham WSAF AC won the junior ladies race. In the men’s team race Raheny Shamrocks won, with Rathfarnham WSAF AC second and St. Abbans third. In the ladies team event Crusaders won, with Donore Harriers second and Sportsworld third. In the Junior men’s team race Rathfarnham WSAF took the honours. All the results are on the MyRunResults website. Pictures of all who ran are on our Facebook site at New Ireland Rathfarnham 5k Run. Well done and a great thank you to all who ran.

The statistics show that there were 8 under 15 minutes, 29 under 16 mins., 68 under 17 mins., 190 under 20 mins., 427 under 25 mins and 669 under 30 mins., surely the fastest 5k course in the country. Well done and a great thank you to all who ran. Put the last Sunday in September, the 24th, in your diary for next year’s Rathfarnham 5k Run.

Thanks to New Ireland Assurance for being our main sponsor again in 2016 and to Macarthy Auctioneers, Rathfarnham, Jackie Kingston Sports Massage and Rathfarnham Dental Practice as support sponsors. Many thanks to all who helped around the course today from early morning to afternoon, to all who helped in Terenure College Registration and at registration in the Clubhouse on Friday and Saturday. Also a special thanks to all who helped for the Juvenile races which were run before the 5k, at both the starts and the finish line and for the sponsorship of the prizes which were engraved, dated and displayed our Club logo. Thanks to all.

Mark Christie on his way to victory today.

Laura Shaughnessy coming in to win the ladies race.

Please note that Rathfarnham WSAF AC juvenile training resumes next Monday the 5th September after the summer break.

Members please note that the Tallaght Track will not be available for training on Saturday 7th May due to another booking. The 9am session in Bushy Park will take place as usual.

The  Easter break is coming up next week so there will be no training for the Monday and Wednesday juvenile training groups starting next Monday 21st March for two weeks,until we return on Monday 4th of April. The Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday training sessions will not be affected.

The 8 week Fit4Life programme came to a close last Tuesday with a 5km test in Loreto Park. After battling wind and rain and just over four laps of the park, Gavin Stapleton and Jenny O'Malley (see picture) proved to be fastest man and lady of the evening. It was a delight to see how much the group progressed over the 8 weeks of the programme. Well done to all who took part, we hope to see many of you stay on with the club. A big thank you also to everyone who volunteered to coach the sessions each week.

Turlough Conway won the Wicklow Mountains Half Marathon over a hilly course from the Wicklow Gap to Laragh in 1:34. Greg Byrne finished the Barcelona Marathon in an impressive 2:43. Bohermeen Half Marathon results not available.

https://www.facebook.com/wicklow.marathon/photos/a.685079128181346.1073741828.685018911520701/1057642957591626/?type=3&theater

Members please note that from 5th March until 18th June training at the Tallaght track will be from 11am -12pm to accommodate the Special Olympics group who will be training at 10am during this period. From 25th June we will revert to our normal slot of 10am - 11am for the rest of the year.

Brian competing in the Dublin Marathon

Valerie (#101) competing in the Dublin Intermediate Cross Country Championships 2015 in Tymon Park

What sports did you play in school and college?

Like most children growing up I was involved in a lot of sports. I used to do a lot of swimming, played basketball with the school teams, played Gaelic football with the local club, school and County. When I started secondary school I joined Carrick on Shannon Athletic Club. 

When and why did you choose athletics as your sport?

I always enjoyed running from an early age and I was influenced by watching athletes such as Sonia O’Sullivan, Catriona McKiernan, Paula Radcliffe and Dame Kelly Holmes competing. The friendly atmosphere within Carrick AC and in particular Coach John Connolly made committing  to athletics an easy decision for me.

What does a typical week consist of?

A typical week for me would consist of an hour’s run on the Curragh Plains, County Kildare most mornings before work along with 2-3 clubs sessions on a Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. I would normally finish the week with a long run on a Sunday. 

What's your strongest distance/race?

10km – Road.

How has being a member of Rathfarnham AC added to your experience of the sport?

Since joining Rathfarnham AC in late 2011 I have had the opportunity to meet and train with likeminded people and take part in races I wouldn’t have otherwise entered.

What are your most satisfying achievements in athletics and life?

Winning the Schools Connaught Cross Country and team silver at the Community Games in Mosney was an extremely proud moment as a child; also winning the annual Defence Forces 10k Road Race on consecutive years (2012 & 2013) was a standout achievement.

What advice would you give to other busy individuals trying to balance their career, personal life and training schedules?

It always helps to plan your weeks training in advance and try to find the gaps in your schedule. The most important thing is to enjoy what you do as this makes it easier to find the time.

Who inspires you in life and sport?

I find myself inspired by those around me as there as several fantastic athletes in Rathfarnham AC at every age category and discipline.

If time, talent and money were no obstacle, what event or adventure would you most like to take part in?

Rio 2016 Heptathlon 

What are your goals for 2016?

As Ladies Captain I would like see as many ladies as possible compete and medal in Championship Races in 2016.

The 2015 Rathfarnham Athletics Running Review is now available at the following links:

2015: A Running Review (Issu version)

2015: A Running Review (pdf version)

Contents of the 2015 Review include:

• Juvenile Antics and Adventures
• Rathfarnham’s Leading Ladies
• Senior Men at the Races
• Rathfarnham 5k Race Report
• University Exploits
• Rathfarnham Juniors
• World Masters
• WSAF Juniors
• Club Races and Volunteers
• Sean's Marathon Mission
• David Scanlon on Cross Country
• Stephen Gaffney on Track
• Exercise in Life
• Developing Club Facilities
• Club Management Team
• Annual Club Athlete Awards

Attached please find Dublin Indoor Juvenile fixtures for February 2016

Dublin Juvenile Indoors Day 1 Santry

Dublin Juvenile Indoors Day 2 Santry

Dublin Juvenile Indoors Day 3 Tallaght

Dublin Juvenile Indoors Day 4 Santry

On Tuesday 19th January Rathfarnham WSAF AC welcomed 38 new faces to the club with the start of the Fit4Life group. Despite many modest comments concerning running ability, the level of fitness of the group on day was higher than expected. The group were introduced to Loreto Park, got to grips with some running drills and took to their first medley relay. Thankfully all the smiles they started off with hadn't disappeared by the end. Great start to 2016!

Photo: Dave Power

Commemorating our many great achievements in 2015, we held our Annual Dinner and Prize giving on Friday 15th January 2016 in the Grange Golf Club, Rathfarnham. Thanks to Denis Daly for organising along with many other club members who helped out with photos, prizes, etc. We were joined by Antoinette and Michael from the Dublin Athletics Board and Athletics Ireland respectively.

After dinner, MC Owen McLoughlin guided us through proceedings, including a great review by Club President, PJ Claffey (just back from training in Cork with Rob Heffernan). The club awards are the highlight for many and it was great to see so many super achievements across road, track and cross country. All age groups have had success, at Dublin, Leinster, National and International level. Owen rounded off events with his guitar to play "the song". It got Bono's thumbs up, with Owen's cover of "One" renamed "Run".

Athlete of the Year - Stephen Gaffney for his remarkable performances in the 100m and long jump.

Male Awards

• Cross Country - David Scanlon
• Road - Seán Hehir
• Consistent performance - Brian Furey & Louis McCarthy

Female Awards

• Newcomer - Louise Gaffney
• Road - Valerie Cole
• Master- Maria Dolan
• Senior - Lynne Hennessy

Pictures of all awards winners are in the Gallery.

2016 Captains

Congratulations to Valerie Cole and Brian Furey on the year ahead. A huge thanks to Lorraine Nolan and Paul Stephenson for their leadership in 2015.

David Scanlon represents U23s in Edinburgh

David Scanlon did us proud on Saturday when he represented Ireland on the U23 team that placed 3rd in the Celtic Nations International in Edinburgh. David had a strong run, being the first Irish runner home in 4th place ahead of Rick Nally and Karl Fitzmaurice. Full report on Athletics Ireland.

Rathfarnham WSAF AC had a great day at the Dublin Masters CC in St. Anne's Park, Raheny on Sunday 10th January. On a sunny winters' day, a large field took part in both male & female races. Well done to all who ran.

In the men's race over 6km, the Men's M50 team won the gold medal. The M35 team won the Silver medal. Shane O'Neill was second, Paul Fleming was third and they were followed by Ronan Kearns and Brian Furey.

In the women's race over 3km we had 10 ladies taking part. Results not available yet.

Full results are available on http://dublinathletics.com/. Photos on Facebook at Rathfarnham AC and in the Gallery.

F35 team 8th

F40 Donna Mahon 2nd (7th overall)

F40 Vanessa Sallier 28th

F45 Alyson Caraher 48th

F50 Miriam McCormack 63rd

F45 Zoe Melling 73rd

F40 Sue Ryan 74th

F40 Helen French 81st

F35 Sue Ryan 88th

F60 Helen Ingram 2nd (97th overall)

Teams: M35 2nd, M50 1st

M40 Shane O'Neill 2nd (1st M40)

M40 Paul Fleming 3rd (2nd M40)

M40 Ronan Kearns 5th (3rd M35)

M35 Brian Furey 16th

M35 Michael Freely 26th

M40 Turlough Conway 39th

M50 Paul Moran 41st (3rd M50)

M50 Tom Bishop 57th

M50 Joe Casey 61st

M45 Denis Daly 72nd

M55 Tom Cuddy 92nd

M55 John Farrelly 98th

M55 John McHugh 107th

M55 Sean Doyle 117th

M55 Terry Clarke 131st

M45 Eric Cullen 137th

M50 Derek Bain 145th

David Scanlon represents U23s in Edinburgh

David Scanlon did us proud on Saturday when he represented Ireland on the U23 team that placed 3rd in the Celtic International in Edinburgh. Full report on Athletics Ireland.

  F35 Team

M35 team (silver medal)

  M50 team (gold) and M35 team

The rescheduled Waterford AC Half Marathon took place on Saturday 9th January. Mick Clohisey (Raheny AC) and Claire Gibbons-Mccarthy (Leevale AC) were the overall winners in a field of over 1,300 runners. Rathfarnham had two runners, with Michéal Murphy 103rd in 1:27:15 and Michael Devine 260th in 1:35:41. Full results on TotalTiming.ie.

Congratulations to Paul Stephenson and his wife Edwina on the birth of their daughter Elsie. We wondered why Paul didn't feature in the results of this race, but now we know he had a great excuse!

We are happy to announce that the Rathfarnham WSAF AC Fit4Life Programme will run again this year. Details are as follows:

Date: Tuesday January 19th 2016 - Tuesday 8th March 2016 (8 Consecutive Tuesdays)

Time: 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Location: Loreto Park, opposite Nutgrove Shopping Centre, see the link below for the exact meeting point (Note that this is in the middle of the park NOT at Leicester Celtic as it was last year)

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=zkbFTxJHLlcs.kyTUZulmwF00

Cost: €25 for 8 weeks. Sign up online at: http://www.athleticsrathfarnham.ie/membership/fit-for-life-membership/levels.html

The annual St. Stephen's Day club mince pie run will take place this Saturday December 26th, starting at 10am from Rathfarnham Village and following the traditional route up to the Killakee lookout point. Last year's trophy winner Terry Clarke will be back to defend his title, and winners and losers alike are invited to join the festivities in the clubhouse afterwards.

Participants in last year's Mince Pie Run.

Below please find the 2015 juvenile cross country fixtures and the race distances for each age group.

Dublin Cross Country Fixture List 2015

Juvenile Cross Country Distances 2015

Please note that there will be no access to the clubhouse in Rathfarnham village from this Wednesday 12th August for a period of one week due to maintenance work.

At last Tuesday's training in Nutgrove Park some of our promising members had the opportunity to model this year's Rathfarnham 5k Run tee shirt, which has recently come in. Please register for the 5k run on our race website at the link across so as to collect one of these coveted items. Some further pictures of the tee shirt and images of those training on our Nutgrove Park training track, are in the Gallery and by clicking the picture below. Thanks to John McCabe for spearheading the upgrading of our running track at Nuitgrove and Mark Ryan for getting the tee shirts.

Please note that the Rathfarnham clubhouse will be out of action for a week from this Wednesday 29th July as it is being painted.

BHAA  races are being well supported by Rathfarnham club members, both as administrators / organisers (Brendan, Terry, Vanessa) and as competitors.

Winter League Prizewinners: Mens Div D 1st Peter McDermott; Mens Div C 2nd Eric Cullen; Womens Div A 3rd Vanessa Sallier; Mens Div B 3rd Tom Cuddy, 8th John McHugh.

28 March: Dublin City Council 4 mile Road Race: Peter McDermott 29:14 (1st O'65), Terry Clarke 30:58.

11 April: K Club 10k Road Race: 57th John Brennnan 37:12; 190th Barry Mulvihill 42:53; 218th Vanessa Sallier 44:18; 236th Peter McDermott 45:03 (1st  O'65).

25 April: RTE 5 mile Road Race: 1st Sean Hehir 24:53; 2nd Paul Fleming 26:35; 8th Ronan Kearns 27:45; 12th Colm Murrray 28:17 (2nd O'45); 28th John Brennan 29:22 (2nd O'40); 43rd Tom Cuddy 30:35 (2nd O'55); 60th Derek Bain 31:43; 117th Peter McDermott 36:04 (1st O'65); 122nd Aisling Tohill 36:25 (3rd O'35).

20 May: ESB 5k Beach Race: 6th Colm Murray 17:22 (1st O'45); 20th Tom Cuddy 18:51 (1st O'55); 40th Derek Bain 19:55; 47th Vanessa Sallier 20:39 (1st O'40).

26 May: Government Services 5 mile Road Race: 30th Colm Murray 27:58 (2nd O'45); 45th Denis Everett 29:06 (6th O'40); 70th Tom Cuddy 29:57 (1st O'55); 105th John  McHugh 31:39 (3rd O'55); 151st Barry Mulvihill 33:21; 168th Vanessa Sallier 33:47 (3rd O'40); 208th Miriam McCormack 35:14 (3rd O'50); 360th Aisling Tohill 38.00.

10 June: Trinity Track: 1200m Grade A: 18th Tom Cuddy 4:02; 2000m Grade C: 2nd  Neil Skelton 7:08.

23 June: Irish Prison Services 5k Trail Race: 30th Tom Cuddy 19:00 (1st O'55); 48th David Danagher 19:50; 56th Donna Mahon 20:05 (1st O'40); 57th Daniel Keogh 20:07 (6th O'45); 66th Vanessa Sallier 20:30 (2nd O'40).

Please note that the Juvenile Club will be closed for the summer from Wednesday 24th June until Monday 7th September. Further information on juvenile training is available here. Happy holidays to all juveniles and parents.

A number of top Rathfarnham athletes competed at this years Leinster T&F Championships, with some great results. As always the event was held in Tullamore and combined the U23, Senior and Masters championships.

Highlight of the day came when Stephen Gaffney won the Senior Mens 200m in a new championship record of 21:55. On top of that, Stephen also won the U23 100m in a time of 10:82. In the masters 100m race, Daryl Flanagan was victorious in the O35 race in 12:39.  

From sprinting to long distance, in the Senior Mens 5000m, Sean Hehir cruised to victory in a time of 15:03, not too far behind was Louis McCarthy (15:30) claiming the bronze medal. Brian Furey (16:25) narrowly claimed fifth place, edging out Rathfarnham team mate Kevin Donagher (16:26).

Also in action over the weekend was David Scanlon, who was chosen to compete for the Irish Universities in the 2015 International Intervarsity Match. The event is a competition pitting the best of Irish university athletes against the best of Scothish universities. David competed in the 5000m. Results for the Intervarsity match will be available on the IUAA website shortly. Well done to all.

Please note that there will be no juvenile training next Monday June 1st. Training will resume on Wednesday 3rd June at 6.30pm at the clubhouse. Enjoy the long weekend.

The Tallaght track is not available for the next two weekends and that training will be in Bushy Park.

Please find the Juvenile fixtures below:

• Juvenile TF Fixtures 2015
• Juvenile U10 - U16 Track and Field 2015 League 3 Tallaght Saturday 16th May 2015
• Juvenile U10 - U16 Track Field League 2 2015 Tallaght 9th May 1
• Track and Field League 4 2015 Santry 23rd May 2

Stephen "Glutes" Gaffney smashed two of his PBs last weekend at the University of Limericks Thomand Games. First up Stephen ran the 100m finishing first in a time of 10.76. Not being satisfied with one PB, Stephen wanted more and went on to win the 200m in 21:42. No doubt these are Rathfarnham WSAF AC club records. 

Also over the weekend, several Rathfarnham athletes competed in the BHAA RTE 5 mile. To add to his ever growing list of victories, Sean "Tortoise and the" Hehir won the race in 24:53. He was closely followed by Paul "The Snake" Fleming finishing second in 26:35. Not too far behind came Ronan "Danny Boy" Kearns 8th (27:45), followed by Colm Murray 12th (28:17), John Brennan 27th (29:22), Tom Cuddy 42nd (30:35) and Peter Mc Dermot (36:06).

Stephen Gaffney finishing the 100m race

Well done to all the Rathfarnham Rats who competed in the first Dublin Graded Series Track Meet at Morton Stadium on Wednesday. It was a fine Spring evening at Morton Stadium, ideal running conditions. First up on the night was Brian "The Fuirous" Fury in the 10,000 meters, the first event in the Dublin Graded Endurance Project. Brian finished 2nd in a time of 34:00.

Next up was the 1500 meters, with three Rathfarnham athletes competing. Gerard "The Cobra" Claffey came 6th in grade C in a season opener of 4:33. Patrick "Le Maitre" Marjolet was victorious in the second grade C race in 4:25, closely followed by Aaron "New Gun" Browne, 4th in 4:29. Cillian "The Kid" Doherty of WSAF finished 11th in the grade B race in a time of 4:27.

Finally a big congratulations to "Deadly" David Scanlon who recently won the most improved athlete in DCU.   

Congradulations to the David Scanlon and Stephen Gafney who competed at the 2015 IUAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The event was held at the Mary Peter's Track in Belfast and was the final event in University athletics calender. 

David Scanlon (DCU) came in sixth place in the 10,000m race in a time of 33:34. This was a 43 second improvement for David from the same race last year. Stephen Gafney (UCD) qualified for the 100m final after finishing first in both his heat and semi-final. In the final itself Stephen finished in fifth place in a time of 11:00. Stephen was also a member of the UCD 4x400m relay team who finished in second place. 

The overall championships were eventually one by Dublin City University. Full results of the championship are avaliable on the IUAA website.  

Juveniles and parents please note that the Juvenile Club will be closed for the Easter holidays. Training will resume on Monday 13th April. Further information on the juvenile club is available here. Happy Easter to all.

The 2014 Rathfarnham Athletics Running Review is now available at the following links:

2014: A Running Review (pdf version)

2014: A Running Review (Issuu version)

Edited by Greg Byrne, the 2014 Review highlights some of the club’s key achievements throughout the year and includes the following features:

• Juvenile Antics and Adventures
• Rathfarnham’s Leading Ladies
• Senior Men at the Races
• Rathfarnham 5k Race Report
• Mitchell in America
• University Exploits
• Rathfarnham Juniors
• Men’s Masters
• WSAF Juniors
• Club Races and Volunteers
• Athlete of the Year Award
• Balance and Injury Prevention
• Developing Club Facilities
• Club Management Team
• Annual Club Athlete Awards

Well done to Greg and his team of contributors for their great work in putting together the Review.

Please note there is no Juvenile training next week as it is mid term. However, Juniors and those Juveniles with John Hayes' group will train as normal on next Tuesday and the following Saturday.

A Juvenile Open Night will be held on Wed 21st January from 6.30pm to 8pm in the clubhouse. There are some changes to the renewal process and membership conditions for juvenile athletes in 2015 and it is important that all parents/guardians attend. There will be no training that night. The renewal process should only take approximately 20 minutes for each parent/guardian. Please click here for further information. We look forward to meeting you on the night.

Juvenile training will start back after the Christmas break next Monday 12th January at 6.30pm at the usual venue. For further information or enquiries on juvenile membership please contact Jackie Kingston at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

The annual Rathfarnham mince pie run will be held on Friday December 26th, starting from the Clubhouse in Rathfarnham Village at 10am. There will be tea and coffee in the clubhouse after the run and the mince pie trophy will be presented to the winner. Feel free to bring along any leftover Christmas goodies.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

The October Edition of Irish Runner has recognised the achievements of Mark Ryan on the mountains, in winning the European Mountain Running M35 Masters title in Poland in July and bronze in the World Masters Mountain Running Championships in Austria in September. In the World championship event Mark and fellow Rathfarnham teammates Peter O'Farrell and Paul Fleming won the bronze team medal. This article is attached. Well done to all.

There will be no training for juvenile athletes on Monday 27th or Wednesday 29th October. Click here for an important notice regarding changes to juvenile training procedures effective from Monday 3rd November.

The 2014 Juvenile cross country is now under way with the first race taking place in Skerries. The 2014 Dublin Cross Country Fixture List is attached. If you want your child to take part in the cross country season please e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Juvenile training sessions will resume after the summer recess on Monday 8th and Wednesday 10th September from 6.30pm – 7.30pm. Meet at the clubhouse on Main Street in Rathfarnham Village. For further information or enquiries on juvenile membership contact Jackie Sullivan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Congratulations to Sean Hehir who has been selected to compete for Ireland in the European Marathon Cup, held in conjunction with the European Trach and Field Championships in Zurich in August. Full details are on the AAI site. Best of luck to Sean and his team mates.

Juveniles and parents please note that there will be no juvenile training over the Easter holidays.  Sessions will resume on Monday 28th April. Further infomation on the juvenile club is available here. Have a nice break everyone.

Congratulations to Louis McCarthy who was appointed Senior Men’s Club Captain last night by Coaching Manager Adam Jones. Louis will take over from his predecessor Jason Reid, and continue the good work in developing and motivating the senior squad and helping the club reach its full potential. We wish Louis all the best in his new role and look forward to great achievements in 2014.

Well done to Sean Hehir who won the Tom O'Driscoll trophy for athlete of the year last night at the Grange Golf Club. Sean had a tremendous year in 2013, winning the Dublin Marathon and National Marathon Championships last October. He also came second in the National Half Marathon in Dublin in August and set a PB and club Record of 65.11 in the Cardiff half marathon, where he was 8th. Other award winners were Vanessa Sallier, Maria Dolan, Gerry Doyle, Ronan Kearns, Shane O'Neill, Paul Fleming, Eoin Flynn, Paul Stephenson and Louis McCarthy. Well done to all. Photos of all the award winners and members at the dinner are in the Gallery

Sean Hehir receiving the Tom O'Driscoll trophy from Tom's brother Flor O'Driscoll

The inaugural issue of the new annual club newsletter is now available at the following link:

Annual Rathfarnham WSAF Athletics Club 2013 News Review

Edited by Adam Jones, the 2013 Rathfarnham Annual Review includes an overview of some of the key achievements during 2013 for the club's athletes, an introduction to the management and coaching team, a feature on our annual 5k road race held in September, an opinion piece, and some helpful tips on how to maximise your athletic potential. Also included is a profile of Sean Hehir, one of the club's most successful athletes and winner of the 2013 Dublin City Marathon.

Best wishes to all for a happy and successful 2014!

Congratulations to Adam Jones who was conferred with a Diploma in Exercise and Health Fitness with First Class Honours at the University of Limerick today. Adam also received a Certificate in Exercise and Health Fitness three years ago, and has been putting his qualifications to good use in his role as Coaching Manager at Rathfarnham WSAF.  A few photos of Adam's graduation are in the gallery.

A good article on Sean Hehir is attached from yesterday's Fit Magazine which comes with the Irish Independent.

A Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year to all from Rathfarnham WSAF Athletic Club. Why not join us for the Mince Pie run on St. Stephen's Day. Meet at the Clubhouse at 10.00 and have have a go at winnig the last great trophy of the year.