Golden sun, neon attire and bright smiles at the Omagh Half Marathon

By Jack Baxter

The welcome golden sun broke through the clouds of a chilly spring morning, as the athletes and exercise enthusiasts of Omagh took their positions on the starting line of the Spar Omagh Half Marathon – an indication that a return to normality may be finally underway.

The half marathon, along with the ‘5K Run & Walk’, took place yesterday (Sunday, April 3), and after a three-year hiatus, participants were keen to reacquaint their trainers and running gear, and, finally, get back to the activity that they’ve been robbed of since Covid-19 dug its claws in to everyday life.

The atmosphere was one of excitement and adrenaline, overpowering the hazy sounds of sniffles due to the – what felt like – sub-zero temperatures.

However, when the starting gun fired, the shivers and goosebumps vanished – and there was exhilaration in abundance.

The competitive participants began to disappear into the distance and the leisure runners did the same – albeit at a more relaxed pace.

Speed, however, was secondary to the enthusiasm and passion shown in abundance by partakers, and as they progressed around the course, cheers echoed enthusiastically from the crowd.

With such a carnival atmosphere, it was fitting, then, that the sound of rubber thrashing off the tarmac sounded like something reminiscent of the Grand Prix.

Remarkably quickly, neon-coloured vests began to emerge into view once more – signalling a race well-run.

Leading the plucky pack of runners was Sergio Ciobhanu, who finished with an incredible time of 1.07.17, while following him were Eoin Mullan and Gary O’Hanlon, with times of 1.08.47 and 1.09.15, respectively.

Taking the top prize for the fastest woman was Anne Marie McGlynn, who finished the race with a phenomenal time of 1.22.41. She was quickly pursued by Grainne O’Hagan and Michelle Donnelly, who raced past the finishing line very shortly after.

While many people were delighted to receive a personal best as they crossed the line with fervour and pride, other entrants who chose a slower pace simply enjoyed the exercise they were getting, and the camaraderie which they experienced throughout.

And it was an event which saw people of all ages in attendance; confirming that regardless of your age, nothing should stand in your way from achieving your goals.

Also spotted amongst the throes of neon were parents with their babies in buggies, as well as individuals who completed the race in wheelchairs, proving the Half-Marathon route was a celebration of inclusiveness.

Partakers described this year’s course – the route of which differed slightly from previous years – as ‘challenging and tough’, but still ‘fun and enjoyable’.

Many runners also commented on the changing weather, which transformed into a fresh and warm spring day the finish line was reached – just perfect running conditions!

Spectators, too, enjoyed watching the run in the sun’s pleasant yellow glow, with jubilant cheers of support and encouragement being heard from start-to-finish.

They also benefited from on-site luxuries, such as various coffee stands, ice-cream vans, and even a pizza van – an indulgence that was popular with many!

Local charities, running clubs and foundations were also well-represented, including the ‘Run for Enda’ team, bedecked in their bright-yellow jerseys.

Overall, the Spar Omagh Half Marathon was a roaring success from beginning-to-end, with participants and spectators alike enjoying a superb time.

It was certainly a welcome return back to the town’s itinerary after the three-year break – and who knows, perhaps you and I will be inclined to don our neon and trainers and run in the name of the Omagh Half next year!