Record turnout for FEARmanagh 2023

FEARmanagh 2023, the epic 10th-anniversary Endurance Adventure Race, unfolded on Saturday, 30 September, breaking records with an astounding turnout of over 330 intrepid participants.

Nestled in the heart of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Geopark, this year’s event drew competitors from the local community, UK, Ireland, Europe and Australia, transcending boundaries for a day of sheer sporting excitement.

The challenge was set across the breath-taking landscapes of Derrygonnelly, West Fermanagh, featuring a gruelling long course of 74 kilometres and a thrilling short course spanning 35 kilometres.

The race route itself was a captivating blend of scenic beauty and formidable terrain, embracing the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark’s crown jewels. Participants navigated the hills of Knockmore, ventured through the enchanting Big Dog Forest, along the spectacular Lough Navar viewpoint and cliff path, along the tranquil shores of Magho and the village of Garrison.

The event’s finish saw the presentation of awards by Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, doing the honours. The fastest male and female competitors across various age categories, along with outstanding team achievements, were recognized.

The top prizes for the long race went to Edward Kearney (Antrim) and Laura O’Driscoll (Louth) who completed the gruelling 74Km in 3 hours 27 minutes and 18 seconds and 3 hours 41 minutes and 47 seconds respectively. Laura also picked up Queen of the Hill for the fastest female to conquer Magho steps on the long race.

Local competitor and one of the founders of FEARmanagh, Robbie Bryson, picked up King of the Hill for the fastest male to conquer the steps and he also won the Male over 60 category.  The winner of male category for the short race was local man Niall Burns from Monea who was also part of the winning team in the short race, Lakeland Cycle Club.  The winner of the female category for the short race was Denise Molloy from Meath.

Speaking at the awards presentation, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, said:

“FEARmanagh was developed by the Council to encourage visitors to the West Fermanagh region, inviting them to enjoy the rugged landscapes through the excitement of adventure sports.

I would like to commend all the winners and competitors who have taken part in FEARmanagh, it is a tremendous achievement and you can be proud of yourself.

The success of this event is testament to the support and partnership working of a number of individual and organisations including the local Derrygonnelly Community, Derrygonnelly and Community District Partnership and Derrygonnelly Community Centre as well as our emergency services and the many volunteers.”

Results from the event are available to view at: www.sportident.co.uk/results/Fearmanagh/2023.