The exodus is well underway with Athletes heading out to European Masters T&F Champs in Pescara, Italy which kicks off on Thurs 21st Sept up to Sunday 1st Oct. Rep of Ireland will once again field one of the largest Teams with just over 100 Athletes entered and expectations will once again be high, given the phenomenal success achieved over the more recent European & World Masters T&F Champs. On behalf of the IMAA, I wish all who are travelling a safe & enjoyable trip and wish you all every success in your event(s). We will be monitoring your results viawww.pescaraemacs2023.it
On the home front, plans are now well underway for forthcoming trial race to select Athletes for British & Irish Masters CC Champs which will be hosted by Scottish Masters in Tollcross Park Glasgow, Sat 11thNov. Having won both overall Men’s & Women’s titles for the very first time last Nov, the challenge is now on to defend both. Trial race for selection will take place on Sunday 15th Oct, run in conjunction with AAI Open CC in Abbottstown. Entries are now open via Entry (athleticsireland.ie)Please note that entry fee currently stands @ €15 up to 4th Oct increasing thereafter & closing on Sun 8th Oct. No late entries will be accepted after that date, so please ensure that you enter on time.
Selection criteria remains the same as in previous years, i.e. M35 to M50, teams of 6, with first 4 Athletes in each age group automatically selected. All other age categories, M55-M75 plus Women F35 to F70s all teams of 4, with first 3 home in trial automatically gaining selection. There are “wildcard” options available to Athletes who might not be available to run the trial, but wish to be considered for selection. If no “wildcard” application within a category then the first 4 or 6 Athletes in the trial will be automatically selected. Requests must be submitted in writing to International Sec @ internationalsec@gmail.comadvising why unable to run trial plus must also submit recent race results for Sept/Oct. Applications must be lodged by Wed 11th Oct. Verbal requests will not be entertained plus all Athletes must be registered Members of IMAA.
Should also point out that any Athlete(s) who are running in one category in the trial but will be eligible for next category by 11th Nov, please advise Comm Members @ IMAA desk on Sun 15th, so they are fully aware and can select accordingly. If not brought to their attention & Athletes selected and notified, it’s not possible to adjust Teams after wards.
There are also Individual Champ medals available to top 3 in F75 & M80 categories should Athletes wish to try out for these. Any Athlete(s) in those age categories can drop down & gain selection to F70 & M75s should they finish in the top 3 within those age groups.
George Maybury
President IMAA