Runners out in force for annual Strabane Tri Club 5k

THE Strabane Triathlon Club (STC) 5k held on Sunday was a fantastic success, bringing together an incredible 271 participants for a brilliant day of racing, community spirit and celebration.

Despite the typical February chill, the weather played its part.

Conditions were cool and crisp - ideal for fast times - with calm air and dry roads creating near-perfect racing conditions.

Runners of all abilities took to the start line, from competitive club athletes chasing podium places to first-time 5k participants embracing the challenge.

Topping the men’s podium in first place was Kieran Kelly (Rahey Shamrock AC) in a blistering 15:04, followed by James Speight (Dromore Runners) in 15:15 with David Laird (Foyle Valley AC) finishing in 15:38.

In the women’s race, Strabane AC’s Anne-Marie McGlynn delivered an outstanding performance, winning in 16:00 and setting a new female course record - a phenomenal achievement.

Nakita Burke, of Letterkenny AC, finished second in 16:22 with Maria McGee (Rosses AC) third in 16:29.

There was also a strong showing from the 20 STC members who proudly represented the club on the day: Jacob McElwee 17:28, Paul Coyle 19:12, Gerard Coyle 20:11, Charles Breslin 20:18, Sane Stewart 20:55, Shane Breslin 21:13, Aidan Christy 21:31, John Muldoon 22:21, Conor Maxwell 22:26, Sinead O’Kane 23:20, Aideen Millar 23:53, Chris Kyle 23:55, Jason Maxwell 24:48, Marie McGillian 25:23, Gareth Crowley 26:18, Paddy Stewart 26:53, Gavin McCay 26:53, Geoff McGillian 27:23, Paula Gallen 32:13 and Orla Crowley 38:20.

A club spokesperson said: "It was fantastic to see such strong club participation across all age groups and abilities, reflecting the depth and spirit within the club.

"A particularly sincere thank you goes to FME Water, whose generous sponsorship of the race prizes added greatly to the success of the event.

"Community support like this plays a vital role in making local races possible, and we are extremely grateful for their backing.

"Their contribution helped recognise the outstanding performances on the day and added to the overall quality of the event.

"The atmosphere throughout the event was electric.

"Supporters lined the course, volunteers kept spirits high, and there was a real sense of community pride from start to finish.

"The encouragement undoubtedly helped many runners push for personal bests and strong finishes.

"A massive thank you goes to the many volunteers who made the event possible. From registration and marshalling to finish-line organisation and refreshments, your commitment ensured everything ran seamlessly.

"Special thanks also to JACE for providing professional first aid cover and ensuring everyone’s safety, An Garda Síochána at Lifford Garda Station for their assistance and support in helping the event run safely and smoothly and Northwest Chip Timing for delivering precise and efficient timing services for all 271 participants.

"And of course, the post-race hospitality did not disappoint.

"The food afterwards was superb and very well deserved, giving everyone the chance to refuel, reflect on their run and enjoy the social side of the day.

"The atmosphere in the hall afterwards perfectly captured what local events are all about - great effort, great company and great community spirit.

"Thank you to each and every runner who took part.

“You made the 2026 Strabane Triathlon Club 5k a truly memorable event.

"We look forward to seeing you all again next year."

See more coverage of the 5k run on pages 38 and 39