A record entry is expected for the sixth annual Marty’s 5k Run/Walk taking place in Derry tomorrow morning.
The race, held in honour of Foyle Valley athlete Marty Gallagher, has become a popular event in the local athletics calendar with the numbers participating growing each year.
Marty was a much respected and gifted member of Foyle Valley Athletics Club who lost his life tragically in 2009.
The huge number who consistently turn out for this event is testament to the many friends that Marty had, not only running circles, but in the Manchester United Football Supporters Club and in his general acquaintances around Derry.
Marty made a big impression on anyone who got to know him. Almost 1,000 runners and walkers took part in the event in 2014 and proceeds from the race will be donated to local charities.
Starting opposite St Brigids College, Glengalliagh Road, at 11.00am the route will go along the Glengalliagh Road, turn left down the Skeoge Road and left again at the Buncrana Road to finish at Templemore Sports Complex.
Last year’s winners were Foyle Valley’s Scott Rankin and Springwell’s Gemma Turley, and while Rankin will be favourite to retain his title, a revitalised Catherine Whoriskey, who recently won the ladies category in the Waterside Half Marathon, could well take the honours this time.
Competitors should allow approx 15 minutes to walk/jog from Templemore Sports Complex to the start at St Brigids College.
The race fee is £10 and each entrant will receive a commemorative t-shirt and a snack at the finish of the course.
There will be prizes for the usual run categories and a perpetual trophy for the first male and female runners
Registration will be at Templemore Sports Complex:from 9am-10.30am.