Valley’s Shiels back to winning ways

Now in its fourth year this very popular 10K race was superbly organised by Knockranny Running Club primarily to raise funds for local charities.

However, this year the Philippines Disaster Fund was added to the list of worthwhile beneficiaries.

And on a testing course Foyle Valley’s Keith Shiels returned to winning ways with an emphatic victory in a time of 32:22.

Keith lead the race from start to finish and was joined on the podium by Glenn Phair (Annadale Striders) in second place (33:03) and Stephen Prentice from the Ennikillen Running Club in third (34:08). Keith by his own admission was somewhat disappointed with his performance at last weeks Joe Seeley 10K in Belfast, but was delighted with his win on Saturday. Keith said after the race that he was pleased with his win having come second to Stephen Duncan (Omagh Harriers) at last years race. “Last year I ran 32:52 so I’m certainly happy with my time this year,” he said.

Other Foyle Valley runners Billy Orr 42:07, Packy Deehan, the clubs newly elected Chairman ran a strong 46:32 for his second 10K race in a week, Peter Loughrey 46:34 and Liam Clarke 47:02.

Valley’s sole female participant, Edel McCarthy, posted an excellent time of 51:01.

The ladies race was won by Pauline McGurren (Sperrin Harriers) in 39:53, Grainne Kelly (Knockmany Runners) was second in 42:20 and Deirdre Haigney of Omagh Harriers took third in 42;43. Enniskillen Running Club took the men’s team prize with Omagh Harriers taking the female title.

As for the Foyle Valley participants Keith of course was delighted with his victory, but all the purple vests in attendance agreed that this was a great event. Well organised, good course, friendly crowd, and enough refreshments at the end to feed not only Rudolph but every other reindeer and runner for miles and perhaps even Santa if he were to show up.