IN PICTURES: Mayor hosts reception for Derry athletic superstar Christy McMonagle

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, was honoured to host a special civic reception in recognition of the remarkable athletic journey of Christy McMonagle, now 81 years of age. Over many decades, Christy achieved extraordinary success in cross-country running and national half marathons, representing Ireland with distinction on numerous occasions. His career includes nine National Half Marathon titles and a progression from Ulster Novice and Intermediate Champion in the same year to Senior Ulster Champion the following year, which propelled him onto the international stage.

In later years, he broke the Irish over-70 marathon record with a time of 3 hours 13 minutes in 2010, before surpassing his own achievement at the 2011 Dublin City Marathon with an exceptional 3 hours 8 minutes. Although ill health brought his running career to a close three years ago, Christy McMonagle’s legacy of dedication, resilience, and sporting excellence remains an inspiration to athletes and communities alike.

Mayor McHugh paid tribute to such a remarkable man, and thanked him for his dedication to sport. “Mr McMonagle’s achievements go far beyond medals and records; they reflect a lifetime of dedication, perseverance, and pride in representing Derry and Ireland at the highest level. It is a privilege to recognise a sporting career that has inspired generations.”

PICTURED BELOW: The Mayor Councillor Ruairi McHugh presented Christy McMonagle with a commemorative crystal plaque with the citation, “In honour of a remarkable athletic journey and countless achievements in cross country and National half marathons over many decades”. (Photos: Martin McKeown)

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