Running: Harriers compete in Greencastle 5 Mile

This event is one of the top races in the running calendar and it is now in its 28th year, a great tribute to Oliver McCullagh and his organising team.

The course is set in the foothills of the Sperrins in the village of Greencastle, Co Tyrone, and competitors come from far afield to tackle the event, which includes the famous “Hill” section towards the end. Top runners in NI such as Stephen Scullion, Keith Shields, Maria Cambridge and Cathy McCourt, to name but a few, were all in attendance for the race.

The Sperrin Harriers team had over 50 members taking part in the race, which got underway at 1pm. At the 3 mile stage, Michael Crawley, Delfim Pimentel, Diarmuid O’kane, Desi Foley, Paul McLaughlin and Jonathan Dempsey were all keeping in touch with the leading pack, whilst Pauline McGurren, Cheryl Cardwell and Nuala Kelly had put in strong first half to keep in touch with the leading ladies.

At the finish line Stephen Scullion (North Belfast) retained his title taking 1st place in the men’s section, with Maria Cambridge (Letterkenny AC) taking the prize for 1st lady.

Michael Crawley was the first Sperrin Harrier home and finished in 11th place overall, whilst Ursula Daly was the first Sperrin Lady to finish in 49th place.

Overall the Sperrin Harriers were well represented in each of the classes with Delfim Pimentel taking 1st in the M45 Class. Tommy Harraghy was 1st in the M60 Class and Irwin Spiers took 2nd place in that category also, whilst Louis Devlin took 2nd in the M65 group. Pauline McGurren was 2nd in F35 class and Cheryl Cardwell 3rd in the F40 section.

Well done to everyone who took part in the race and thanks to the Greencastle team for their hospitality on the day.

Top 5 Sperrin Harrier

11th Michael Crawley- 28:36

13th Gavin Corey- 28:53

14th Desi Foley- 28:58

18th Delfim Pimentel- 29:35

21st Diarmuid O’Kane- 29:56