Tributes paid to driving force behind popular Greencastle road race

By Alan Rodgers

TRIBUTES have been paid to the man who for almost 40 years was the driving force behind the highly successful Greencastle 5 Mile Run.

Oliver McCullagh has died following an illness and was widely known all across the north for the famous Boxing Day race, which raised thousands of pounds for charity.

He had begun organising the race in 1986, and it grew to attract hundreds of runners each Boxing Day.

His death has come as a major shock to the people of the Greencastle area, and he will be mourned not only there but also much further afield.

The Greencastle 5 Mile Road Run have described him as someone who was never afraid to step up to the mark.

“He set the targets for many road racing events ever since,” they said.

“Not only was he the brains behind all the ideas, he was also the organiser, promoter, runner, spokesperson, delivery man, project manager, person in charge, gantry builder, tidy upper, waterman, timing ship cutter, race starter, trophy maker, delegater and one of the best friends and neighbours to everyone about.

“One thing for sure is that Oliver has left a great legacy behind him for his children and grandchildren.”