Strabane Triathlon Club members take on Dublin Marathon

SIX Strabane Triathlon Club (STC) members took to the streets of Dublin on Sunday to tackle the incredible challenge of the Dublin Marathon.

Months of training, early mornings, long runs, dedication and determination all come together on marathon day, and the STC crew certainly did the club proud with some fantastic performances.

Results

Brendan Murphy – 2:47:51

Charles Breslin – 3:37:46

Gerard Coyle – 3:38:00

David Arbuckle – 3:40:58

Andy Devine – 3:48:59

Rory Devine – 4:18:48

A club spokesperson said: “A special mention to Brendan Murphy, who stormed home in an outstanding 2:47:51, breaking the 2-hour-50-minute barrier.

“There were also some brilliant performances from Charles, Gerard and David, all finishing within a little over three minutes of each other, while Andy and Rory showed great determination to conquer the 26.2-mile challenge and bring home some fantastic achievements of their own.

“The marathon is never an easy undertaking, and getting to that start line takes commitment, sacrifice and plenty of hard work behind the scenes.

“To see six of our members take on the challenge and cross the finish line is something to be proud of.

“Well done, lads! You've represented Strabane Triathlon Club brilliantly, and we hope you enjoy a well-earned rest and recovery after all those miles.

“Thanks also to everyone who supported, encouraged and cheered the runners on along the way. The support makes all the difference.”

The previous weekend, two STC members took on big running challenges across Europe.

From the sunshine of Mallorca to the less-than-ideal conditions in Amsterdam, Paul McNamee and Sean Doherty were out flying the STC colours and putting all those training miles to good use.

First up was Paul McNamee, who swapped the roads of Strabane for the beautiful surroundings of Mallorca to take on the Palma Half Marathon.

With warmer Mediterranean conditions to contend with, Paul put in a brilliant performance over the 13.1-mile course, crossing the finish line in a fantastic 1:57:14.

“Running in the sunshine might sound like a holiday, but there's certainly no relaxing when you've a half marathon to get through,” a club spokesperson said.

“A cracking effort from Paul and a well-deserved medal to bring home.”

Meanwhile, over in Amsterdam, Sean Doherty had a slightly different experience, taking on the full 26.2 miles in what sounded like some pretty miserable weather conditions.

With the elements adding an extra challenge to an already demanding distance, Sean dug deep and battled his way around the streets of Amsterdam to cross the finish line in a brilliant 4:02:27.

The spokesperson added: “Completing a marathon is no small achievement at the best of times, never mind when the weather isn't playing ball.#

“A serious display of determination and endurance from Sean.

“Massive congratulations to both Paul and Sean from everyone at Strabane Triathlon Club.

“Two very different races, two very different sets of conditions, but the same fantastic effort and determination.”

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