Organisers of Friday evening’s Jim Shiels Memorial 10k road race/3k walk in St Johnston are expecting a large entry.
Race director, Dara McNulty, said that the region’s athletic clubs have shown big interest since the event, which has a 7 pm start, was launched last month.
“We are really pleased with the response we’ve been getting from all clubs from both sides of the border,” Dara commented.
“When we set about pulling this event together at the start of the summer, we were keen to get the backing of the local athletic clubs and the support of the local community. Thankfully, we have managed to secure both and we are extremely happy about that,” he added.
Registrations will be take at the St Johnston Resource Centre from 5 pm and registrations will close at 6.45 pm.
“We are asking all those taking part to come along and get registered early as the race will be getting underway at 7 pm sharp. Showering facilities will be available at the Kildrum FC, with the presentation of prizes and refreshments afterwards in the St Johnston Resource Centre.
“The course is accurate, and if the weather conditions are favourable, we are expecting plenty of fast times given the flatness of the course. There’s a great level of anticipation in the area and I know from speaking to athletes from various parts that they are looking forward to Friday night. Our aim when we first came together as an organising committee was to stage a high quality race in memory of one of life’s gentlemen,” Dara said.
Jim Shiels, from Drumenon, St Johnston, who ran with Finn Valley AC, passed away in November last year. He was an extremely popular and highly respected runner who had a genuine interest in helping and advising athletes from all clubs. The proceeds raised from Friday night’s race will be donated to the Donegal Hospice and the Oncology Unit at Letterkenny University Hospital.
Entry for the 10k is €10 euro/£10, while those taking part in the 3k walk can make a donation. Chipped timing will be in operation for 10k participants. A water station will be located at the 5k point.
