Local athlete Keith Shields has won the Waterside Half Marathon.
Foyle Valley runner Keith Shields celebrates after crossing the finiishing line.
The Foyle Valley runner came home in a provisional time of 69 mins 45 seconds – just two seconds ahead of runner-up, City Spartans’ Declan Reid..
It is a remarkable achievement for the Shields who was making a rare appearance at the half marathon distance – he specialises in the short 5k and 10k events.
Foyle Valley’s Scott Rankin claimed third spot in a time of 71.39.
Speaking to Derry Daily after crossing the finish line Keith said he was delighted to win and was looking forward to “a few beer.’
He said: “It’s not about winning. I just love to compete.”
And he said he was going to enjoy the win before looking ahead.
Keith was among the favourites to “break the tape” and he received a confidence booster shortly for the start when it was learned pre-race favourite, Stephen Scullion, had pulled out of the event with a “leg strain.”
Anne Marie McGlynn, of Lifford Athletic Club, won the women’s race in a time of 79 mins 18 secs.
The next event which will attract a number of today’s runners is the Chest Heart and Stroke “Run to Remember” 10k/5k Beach Run at Benone Strand on Saturday next.
Entry fee is £15 per person and anyone wishing to compete can register by logging on to www.nichs.org.uk/benone.
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