Local clubs well represented at Lough 5 race

STRABANE clubs were well represented at the annual Lough 5 race in Loughmacrory.

Members of Lifford Strabane AC, Finn Valley AC and Melvin Walk, Jog, Run (WJR) were among the crowd of almost 1,200 who toed the line for the annual event which was held on New Year's Day.

Luke Dinsmore, of Annadale Striders, crossed the line first in a time of 25:25, followed by Dromore AC's James Speight who finished second in a time of 26:04 with Shaun Kerrs, of Tir Chonaill AC third in 27:26

Strabane's Colly Harkin produced a solid performance to finish ninth and earn himself second in the M35 category in a swift time of 28:38.

In the ladies race, Maria McGee, Rosses AC, topped the podium winning in a time of 28:37, with Tir Chonaill AC's Ciara Cunningham second in 29:57 and Aimee Smyth, of Galbally Runners, clinching third in a time of 30:04.

"We’d like to send a huge and heartfelt thank you to everyone who turned out once again for the Lough 5," a spokesperson for the race commitee said.

"Your continued support - whether you were running, cheering on family and friends, or supporting the kids’ race - truly means more to us than words can say.

"By taking part, you also helped support the two charities at the very heart of this event.

"Termonmaguirc Friendly Care Group and Termonmaguirc Cancer Patients Comfort Fund - both run by dedicated volunteers, with every penny raised going directly towards supporting local families who need it most."

Thanks is also extended to those who sponsored the event and who helped in any way.

"We are incredibly grateful to each and every one of our sponsors whose generosity and continued support make this event possible year after year," the spokesperson added.

"Quite simply, we could not do this without you. Your backing means everything to us and to everyone who takes part."

A full list of thanks is available on the event Facebook page with full results available via:

www.lough5.com