STC crew shine in Northwest Coastal Challenge and Budapest Marathon

IT'S been a busy few weeks for members of Strabane Triathlon Club (STC) with fantastic performances in challenges across the roads, coast and beyond.

One October 3, Stephen McCrory, Conor Maxwell and Liam Daly, took on and completed the Northwest Coastal Challenge.

The event is a tough coastal challenge requiring plenty of determination and grit.

A spokesperson for STC said: "Great to see our club members getting out there and taking on a demanding event.

"Brilliant effort, lads."

The following day, October 4, it was the Donegal Three Quarter Marathon and Mini Marathon (12.5k).

Paul Coyle stormed to victory in the Mini Marathon with an excellent time of 48:24.

Not far behind was Shaun Lynch, who secured an impressive fifth place overall in 59:12.

A number of members were also in action over the Three Quarters distance.

Gerard Coyle was 62nd overall in 2:39:08 with Andy Devine 88th overall in 2:48:54, including an outstanding seven-minute personal improvement and Sean Doherty, who was 102nd overall in 2:55:02

The spokesperson added: "A tough test over a challenging distance, with all three showing great determination to get the job done. Well done, lads."

The club's Rossan Noonan was in action in the Budapest Marathon on October 11.

He smashed through the magical three-hour barrier for the first time, crossing the finish line in an incredible 2:59:08.

The club spokesperson added: "Breaking the three-hour mark is a massive milestone for any marathon runner, and to achieve it with just 52 seconds to spare makes it even sweeter.

"Months of hard work, dedication and training paying off on the streets of Budapest.

"A fantastic achievement and one to be very proud of.

"Congratulations to everyone who has been representing Strabane Triathlon Club over the past few weeks.

"Whether tackling a coastal challenge, chasing podium places or breaking marathon milestones, you continue to do the club proud!

"Keep up the great work, everyone."