Harriers hit Galway Bay Half Marathon

A TEAM of Sperrin Harriers enjoyed the weekend break in Galway Bay for the annual half marathon and 10k races. Clear blue skies welcomed thousands of athletes to Salthill on Saturday morning for these flat and fast courses.
By The Newsroom
Published 10th Oct 2012, 16:10 BST

As the start horn sounded 9.45am five sperrin harriers were among the many thousands taking part in the scenic 10k race. Dean Corey was the first harrier to cross the finish with a time of 44.40, followed by Francis Purvis with 50.20. Adel Quinn was next with 53.00, Denise Campbell 59.46 and Michelle Murphy close behind with 61.11

Then the half marathon started at 11am. With thirty three harriers taking part, the club presence was strong on this 2 lap course. Fergal Mulgrew, Alan Shaw and Paul McLaughlin were quick to battle for front positions. A little further back Jeremy Dobson was settling into the pace well, while Monica Mullin and Deirdre Conway were also in top from. On the second lap and having a smooth run was Gregory Cahoon who had gained a couple of places as did Connor Martin.

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Fergal Mulgrew was the first harrier to cross the finish in 1.22, second was Paul McLaughlin with 1.23 and Alan Shaw in third with 1.30 next were Connor Martin 1.30,Gregory Cahoon 1.31 pb, Darren Warnock 1.35 pb, Trevor Dallas 1.39, Ciran Campbell 1.39 pb, Jeremy Dobson 1.41, Doc Martin 1.43

Oliver Murphy 1.43, Barry Lougharn 1.44 pb, Tanya Black1.45, Stephen Quinn 1.46, Barry O’Neill 1.47, Ciara Coyle 1.48 pb, Monica Mullin 1.48 pb, Kevin Loughlin 1.51, Deirdre Conway 1.54 Pb, Nicola Gillespie 1.55, Toirleach Gourley 1.56, Hannah Su 1.56, Peter McKenna 1.57, Gerard Lougharn 2.00 pb, Ursula Kelly 2.01 pb, Laura Mackerlane 2.01 pb, Roisin Mackerlane 2.01pb, Louise Kelly 2.02 pb, Deirdre Bradley 2.15 pb, Michael McCrory 2.17, Meiraid Hughs 2.25 pb, Des Kelly 2.27, Maureen Mallon 2.30 pb Great running!

A grand total of fifteen new PB’s were achieved. Well done to the few harriers who were running their first half marathon. Great to see all the hard work paying off.

It was a relaxed afternoon by the hotel pool followed by dinner and “team bonding” on Saturday night. A big thank you to the bus driver, Sean Hampsey for driving us safely during the trip.

Awards night

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The Sperrin Harriers Annual Awards Night has now been confirmed for Saturday 24th November. Only 100 limited tickets are available for the largest event for the club which will celebrate the success of the members throughout the year. Please book your spaces early to avoid disappointment

Winter league series

Just three weeks left now until the 2012 Winter League Trail Series. The first race of the League will be held at the An Creaggan visitor Centre on Saturday 27th October at 12 noon. Registration opens from 11 - 11.45am. £3.00 for affiliated members and £4.00 to those unaffiliated to ANI.

Training sessions

Training continues at Meadowbank Sports Arena each Monday and Wednesday at 7.30pm and also in Cookstown at Loughry College Campus at 6.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Beginners and new members are always welcome as we cater for all abilities. Just like our Facebook page “sperrin harriers” for further info, or visit our websitewww.sperrinharriers.co.uk

Related topics:Alan Shaw