Sport

Entries open for Greencastle 5

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Greencastle 5 Mile Road Race, which is widely-regarded as the top event of its kind in Ireland over the Christmas holiday period.

This year race director Oliver McCullagh has secured sponsorship from Dalradian Gold, which should ensure that the 28th edition of the Tyrone classic is the best to date.

McCullagh has also announced that both of last year's winners, Stephen Scullion and Maria McCambridge, will be back to defend their respective titles.

Almost 1,100 runners and walkers completed the testing one-lap circuit in 2012 but it is hoped that number will be surpassed this St Stephen's Day.

For that reason, McCullagh is advising all would-be participants to enter early either online or by mail.

Both Scullion and McCambridge intend attacking the course records currently held by Gareth Turnbull (2008 - 24:14) and McCambridge herself (2012 - 28:18).

This year the main race will start at 1pm, with the wheelchair athletes going off 10 minutes earlier.

The walk starts at 11am or walkers can also take part in the main race, but must start at the back of the runners to avoid congestion on the narrow roads.

Further details, including online entry, are available at www.greencastle5.com