A new and improved route is the main attraction of the 2014 Dromore 10K and 5K Run/Walk which will take place on Saturday 28th June (2pm) in what will be the town’s sixth year at hosting this cross community event. The 10K route has less hills to battle and will now take in a new section of the town while still running along the picturesque ‘Riverside Walk’ and a finish through the centre of the town. The 5K is the same route but in reverse.

McDermott’s Pharmacy have pledged their support again as title sponsors and are urging runners and walkers from the town as well as neighbouring villages to come along and enjoy what has become not only a competitive fixture in the athletics calendar but also a great family day out.

Bernard Maguire from the Pharmacy said: “I relish another opportunity to be the main sponsor of the Dromore 10K & 5K road race which is now our fourth year to be involved. We are thankful of all the local support which people lend towards this annual event- both returning and new participants are always welcome.

I will soon provide a medicines usage review service for diabetic patients and it is important to note that type 2 diabetes, which is on the increase in the western world at an alarming rate. It can largely be prevented by taking adequate steps towards lowering your Body Mass Index (BMI) if high and eating healthier. There is great information and even a personal diabetes risk score test available at www.diabetesorg.co.uk

Apart from lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes, increasing your fitness boosts brainpower, reduces stress, gives you energy and pumps your heart. Walking and running require very little equipment and exercising with others builds relationships."

Stephen Duncan (Omagh Harriers) who has been a great supporter of the Dromore race was present for the 2014 launch. He has won the 10K for three years in a row from 2010-2012 and after recent wins in 2014 in the Carmen 10K and Beragh 5 Mile, it is likely he would like to take the honours once again over the revised route and possibly set a new course record!

Other contenders include the 2013 winner, Paul Barbour (Omagh Harriers) and Conan McCaughey of Enniskillen Runners while female favourites would have to be Julie Butler (Omagh Harriers), Pauline McGurren (Sperrin Harriers) and Angela Speight (Finn Valley). In the 5K race it would be the Moore sisters Sara and Toni (Omagh Harriers) and if James Speight (Finn Valley) shows up on the start line he would be going for his third title in a row.

Local Dromore runners Patrick Kelly, Nuala Gallagher and Liz O’Brien were all present at the launch and looking forward to tacking the new route along with committee member Mark Colten. Veteran prizes have been introduced for the 10K race for male and female runners for O35, O45 and O55 categories.

Entries have already started coming in on the online system. It is advisable to apply now before the closing date of Monday 23rd June to secure your t-shirt and as after this late rates will apply.

Numbers and late entry will be available at Dromore Sports Centre on Fri 27th (6-8pm) & Sat 28th June (11am - 1.00pm).

For full information on the race visit the dedicated website: www.dromore10k.com and to enter online at www.athleticsni.org.