Local businesses back Mayor’s high-octane ‘Mayor-Rox’ fundraiser

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council has officially announced the initial Sponsors supporting his upcoming charity event, Mayor-Rox.

Mayor Cllr Ruairí McHugh recently met with a number of local businesses, Corlin, McColgan's Quality Foods, and Declan Devine Foods to mark the launch of the sponsorship programme and thank them for their support. Additional confirmed event sponsors include Lynch Tar (Silver Sponsor), Carlin Construction & Joinery (Bronze Sponsor), and Lynch Coach Hire (Silver Sponsor).

Mayor-Rox will invite competitors of all abilities to take part in the district’s first ever HYROX-style simulation event on Saturday 30 May 2026 at Melvin Sports Complex.

The all-day, chip-timed fitness competition will combine running with functional workout stations in a structured race format. Participants will be able to compete individually, in pairs, half-Rox or as part of a relay team, making the event accessible to both experienced athletes and those taking part in their first fitness competition.

Mayor McHugh said he was delighted to have the support of local businesses and is looking forward to bringing the event to Strabane later this year.

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“I would like to say a huge thank you to these local businesses for supporting what promises to be a fantastic community event. Not only are they helping make Mayor-Rox possible, but they are also contributing to two very important charities close to my heart  - PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland and the Castlederg Patient Comfort and Terminally Ill Fund.

We are incredibly excited to bring this event to the Melvin Sports Complex and welcome participants from across the district and beyond. If any other businesses would like to get involved or support the event, I would encourage them to get in touch with myself or the team for more information.”

Derry City & Strabane District Council Mayor Ruairí McHugh pictured receiving a bronze donation for the Mayor's Hyrox from Chris McLaughlin, Corlin Fire Protection, Painting Specialists.

Mayor-Rox is a fundraising event in support of the Mayor’s chosen charities PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland and Castlederg Patient Comfort and Terminally Ill Fund.

A minimum donation of £50 will apply to all entrants, with participants encouraged to raise additional sponsorship where possible.

Derry City & Strabane District Council Mayor Ruairí McHugh pictured receiving a bronze donation for the Mayor's Hyrox from Declan Devine, Declan Devine Foods.

Further details, including start times, race categories, safety guidance and event briefings, will be shared with registered participants closer to the event date.

For more information about the event, including how to register or become a sponsor visit www.derrystrabane.com/mayorrox or contact the Mayor’s Office directly by emailing mayor@derrystrabane.com