Ciaran conquers Carrick Tri in season finale

STRABANE Triathlon Club (STC) recently headed to the east of the country to participate in the latest round of the FATLAD triathlon series which took place in Carrickfergus.

STC’s Ciaran Friel was the club’s sole representative in the event and produced the race of his life to earn himself a top 20 finish, bringing his highly successful 2025 season to a stunning conclusion.

The Irish army company sergeant made short work of the sea swim in Belfast Lough, exiting the water in 10th place having reaped the rewards of his consistent open water swim training throughout the summer months.

After a lengthy first transition of almost a kilometre, Ciaran continued the positive momentum as he delivered a solid bike leg, recording the seventh fastest bike split of the day with his 35kmph average made even more impressive given the mandatory traffic light interruptions.

A smartly paced final 5km run ensured that Ciaran rounded off a stellar 2025 season to cross the line in 16th place, and in doing so, earning himself a fantastic top five placing in his age category, an achievement Ciaran has managed in each of his races throughout 2025!

A club spokesperson said: "A huge congratulations to STC’s Ciaran Friel on his outstanding endeavours over in Carrickfergus and consistently brilliant results throughout 2025.

"Strabane Triathlon Club would like to wish him the very best of luck and speedy recovery from his knee surgery earlier this week.

"Finally, the club wishes to pay a special thanks to Triathlon Ireland, Sport NI, Sport Ireland 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 Group who have assisted us financially throughout the year ensuring that the club continues to thrive."