Strong performances from STC athletes

STRABANE Triathlon Club (STC) athletes were out in force at a number of races tackling tough conditions and bringing home fantastic results.

On Saturday, September 20, Gary Bogle lined up for the Causeway Coast Half Marathon - a notoriously tough and hilly course.

Gary powered through the climbs and crossed the line in a strong time of 1:50:37, claiming an impressive 16th place overall against a quality field.

On Saturday, September 21, Mark Colhoun travelled to Port Beach, County Louth, for the Pulse Port Sprint Triathlon.

The conditions were far from easy, but Mark dug deep and was rewarded with a fantastic finish time of 1:38:55.

Then on Sunday, September 21, it was the turn of Rachel Woods and Conor Maxwell, who made the trip to Donaghadee for the Peninsula Sprint Triathlon.

With the swim cancelled due to rough seas, the race was converted into a duathlon – but that didn’t stop the STC athletes from shining.

Conor Maxwell put in a superb performance, clocking 1:09:15 to secure fifth place in his age category (M18 to 29).

Hot on his heels, Rachel Woods stormed through the run and bike to finish in 1:12:40, taking an incredible first place in her age category (F18 to 29).

A club spokesperson said: "Another weekend of brilliant racing. Well done Gary, Mark, Rachel, and Conor for flying the STC flag with pride!

"Finally, the club wishes to pay a special thanks to Triathlon Ireland, Sport Ireland, Sport NI and Derry City & Strabane District Council for their continued support as well our sponsors Conway Plumbing, Miller Wholesale Ltd., AGL Chartered Accountants, Parkland 33, Frylite Solutions, and CAS Construction and Concreting who have assisted us financially throughout the year ensuring that the club continues to thrive."