There was the first hint of autumn in the air at last nights annual Dessie Run in the Gransha Grounds. The race was fittingly a colurful celebration of the summers racing to date and the purple vests added richly to the scene. It was a delight to witness the efforts of all athletes from Olympic hopeful Greg Roberts down to the last man across the line and a great spectacle was served up to the many onlooking supporters.
There were again many many positive stories for the club. PB’s in all direction, athletes returning to form, largest turnout from one club and a general feel good factor. There were smiles from all quarters after the race as all our athletes reflected ‘en masse’ on their own and the rest of the clubs performances.
The race was won by City of Derry’s Greg Roberts (30:49) followed by the impressive Declan Reed (31:19). Scott Rankin(32:00)however produced a truly stunning display of running for third, actually breaking his own 5k PB in the first half of the race and moving to a new level of performance. Then Pius McIntyre 8th (33:39) and Chris McGuinness 14th (34:55) came home in superb times reflecting the training regime they have completed.     A procession of Foyle Valley athletes then tumbled over the line with a procession of impressive times; Ryan Snodgrass (35:26), Paddy Nicell (36:17), Barry Smith (36:36), Eamon Doherty (36:56), Patrick Mahon (37:00), Dara McNulty (37:12), Brian Kelly (37:18), Ciaran Graham (37:41). There was a race within a race as Jackie Doherty (37:52) pipped Teague Whoriskey (37:53), Ciaran Smyth(37:57) and Marty Dunleavy (37:58) to the line.
Battling performances from Brian Baker, Hugo Hegarty, Declan Doherty, Mark McClintock and Kevin O Neill amongst others stood out.  Deirdre Quigg led the Foyle Valley ladies home and there were great showings for ever dependanble Kate Meehan. Adele McCarthy benefited from Joe’s coaching and debutante Febe Kusmanto thoroughly enjoyed her outing.