Sarsfields run a huge success

THE recent Sarsfields 10k Santa Fun Run proved to be a huge success.

Over 50 runners braved the icy conditions and came out to support Mark McConville in his initiative to raise funds for Romanian orphanages and underage football at Sarsfields.

The early lead was taken up by Stefan Green, but pacesetters Barry Shanks and Michael Kelly reined him in with two miles to go.

The leading pair were neck and neck through the Highmoss but in the closing stages it was Michael Kelly from Grange who had the legs to cross the line ahead of Barry Shanks.

Stefan Green came in third and can claim the bragging rights of being the first Sarsfields player home.

Swapping two wheels for Shank’s mare on this frosty morning was top Lurgan cyclist Enda McDaid and coming in fourth he was the first over 40 runner to finish.

Within the field there were some personal duels. Ciaran Kerr had to dig deep to edge out his younger brother Niall whilst Dixie McCrory was no doubt happy to put one over on his son Michael.

Senior team manager Gerard Skelton was a late finisher.

The organisers of the event were delighted to see a great turn out for the run and were particularly glad to see a few visitors. Winner Michael Kelly received great applause having travelled from Grange to support the event.

It was also good to see Kieran McGurk’s brother James down from Derry to participate in the run.

In terms of fundraising the run raised almost £600 and both Mark McConville and the Sarsfields club were delighted with the support they had received.

The organisers would like to thank Breen’s Shop for their support in donating prizes and refreshments for the competitors.