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This event is growing in both popularity and international atmosphere of elite competitors.
In fact, one of Europe’s top runners described the long distance road race in Armagh as “the perfect test of physical fitness”.
Topi Laitanen Athletes from Finland recently competed to be the first to cross the 5km line in the Cathedral City Race in cold, wet and windy conditions.
The European 3,000m steeplechase champion led 17 runners to complete the distance in less than 15 minutes.
“I know that a lot of Finns have been here for a long time,” Raitanen told BBC News NI.
“I like the environment here. There are a lot of spectators and there are a lot of athletes running under 15 minutes, which makes it a very good event,” he said.
The Armagh Annual International Road Race is hosted by Armagh Athletic Club and attracts the highest level of elite athletes from around the world.
Last time, no fewer than 191 of the 237 finishers were from outside the island of Ireland.
Race director James Vallely said 139 athletes ran the men’s 5K in under 15 minutes this year, a meet record.
Valerie said he believed Armor was “the world’s fastest detailed road race”.
“We have that record. We have made this claim many times and it has not been refuted by any events in the world,” he added.
Compared to other similar running events, the prize money is small, with the winner taking home just £200. However, what is important is experience.
“Runners come here for the contest, not for the money,” the race director explained.
“The prize money for winning the American Championship is $10,000, but he runs slower than Armor.”
“The top runners are here.”
When asked what the appeal of Armor is for athletes, Vidar Johansson from Gothenburg, Sweden, said, “The absolute top runners are here.”
Johansson ran the men’s 5k in 13 minutes, 52 seconds, just shy of third place.
“This was my first race of the season and my first time running here in Northern Ireland and it was a great experience.
“We have the absolute top runners here, and it’s really great to compete against them in front of a big crowd on an oval track.”
“It’s definitely one of the best stores in Europe,” he added.
“Incredible atmosphere”
The Women’s International 3K continues to attract talented athletes from all over the world.
Megan Davis came out on top in this year’s elite women’s 3km race, outpacing race favorite and Tokyo Olympic 800m finalist Alexandra Bell of Great Britain in the final straight.
“Last year I was fourth so I was hoping to improve my time this year, even though it would be really crazy to finish in the top three in Armagh,” she said.
“I’ve been coming here for a few years now and I love this event and everything about it.
“The atmosphere is just incredible and everyone seems to be losing it.
“When me and my coach sit down and reflect on my season, I always say I want to hit Armagh hard because they have the best runners.”
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