Racing 795

The good weather gods were looking down again as four 795ers (plus assorted relatives and friends) headed for the 25th ‘Hell of the West’ in Kilkee, Co. Clare.

Barry Byrne was making his first attempt at the famous race, whilst Martin Mimnagh was having his second go, after last year’s tough event. Seasoned campaigners Jim Furlong and James Bodels were both down for the third time. All were confident of bringing home PBs.

Swim Wave One and the Young Lads (Barry and Martin) were off, followed 10 minutes later by the Old Men. Conditions were excellent – flat calm for the swim around Kilkee Bay. The race leaders were out at an astonishing 20 mins – of the 795ers Martin was out just under the half hour, Barry at 31:20, Jim at 33 mins and James at 48 mins. All happy with their swimming. There were unconfirmed reports of jellyfish, but we think it was just a good old-fashioned case of the heebeejeebees and vivid imaginations…

On to the bike then for a brisk 45km. Martin, Jim and Barry blitzed the cycle, all averaging over the magic 30 km/h mark. James gave his red Paganini a second chance having punctured in Athy, and rode steadily for just under 1:50.

They say the ‘Hell’ in the Hell of the West refers mostly to the run. 5K up, 5k down – sounds easy to me! The lads all had a look of grim determination leaving T2 to tackle the hills of Kilkee. 47 mins later Martin arrived back, smiling his way to the finish line, followed in hot pursuit by Jim and Barry. James arrived somewhat later, having picked up a ‘friend’ along the way, as is now customary.

Top performances by the lads, with ‘Hell of the West’ PBs by some distance for Martin (02:41:19) and Jim (02:52:37). Fine performance too by Barry (02:56:16) in his first visit to Kilkee. When interviewed immediately afterwards, he described it as ‘Hell’! James (04:07:02), in Ironman mode finished fresh, and looking like he could do it all over again! Roll on Barcelona says James...

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