The Dromore 10K and 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday 22^nd June (2pm) in what will be the town’s fifth year at hosting this cross community event. With a reduction in the entry fees (10K is £10 & 5K is £5), the organisers are hoping that people from the surrounding areas will come and support an event that is open to runners of all ages and abilities.

2012 was a special year for the race as it celebrated the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay passing through the town. Local pharmacy, McDermott’s based in Church Street have signed up as title sponsors for the third year. Almost 500 people took part in the road race last year permitted by Athletics NI.

Bernard Maguire from the Pharmacy said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to be the main sponsor of the Dromore Road Race once again. This is my third year to be involved and each year seems to attract more interest than the last.

It is a great event which the whole community has embraced and is now a firm fixture on the events calendar. It appeals to a wide range of fitness levels and the social aspect is fantastic. We are also involved with the Dromore to the Shore charity cycle in August and would encourage anyone not interested in running to get on their bike instead! 

The run day itself can be enjoyed by young and old and it helps to promote the link between the pharmacy and staying active and the obvious health benefits which are associated. One of these is that running involves the release of endorphins which makes us feel good, and for anyone reading this who thinks they are too slow or unfit to partake in the 5k walk or 10k run just remember (as long as there is no medical reason you cannot partake) that you will always run quicker and further than the guy on the couch!  

Helping launch the event was local road running star Mairead McCann from Dromore. Mairead finished last year in third place but has had a phenomenal start to the 2013 season. She won the Carmen 10K in March and followed this up with a second placed finish in the Omagh, Beragh and Gortin 5Ks. There could be a fantastic race on the cards should clubmate and rival Sara Moore, who was second last year, takes to the start line.

Stephen Duncan (Omagh Harriers) has been a great supporter of the Dromore race and has won it the last 3 years in a row holding the course record of 31.27 in 2010. Indeed the Harriers bring a great number to participate in the event with many taking the top spots although Clones AC and Enniskillen Running Club have come to the fore in recent years.

In the 5K in 2012, James Speight (Finn Valley) won in 18.43 while first female across the line was Sarah-Jane Flanagan (Clones AC) in 23.35.

Entries have already started coming in on the online system. It is advisable to apply now before the closing date of Friday 14^th June to secure your t-shirt and to avail of the cheaper entry fee. 

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities please email dromoreroadrace@gmail.com