Donegal man Karol Doherty was the first wheelchair athlete home at the Belfast City Marathon yesterday.
The Carndonagh athlete completed the race in 2:47:04, marking his 24th marathon with another great victory.
Doherty, who is also a mechanic, has always been a skilled sportsperson but had to change the focus of his training when he lost both of his legs in a car accident in 2004. He is also a former Ireland para-rower with City of Derry RC.
Doherty told the Belfast Telegraph that wheelchair racing and marathons were a key part of his recovery after the accident.
“I’ve done 24 marathons now. Competing has helped me get over the impact of the accident, to keep my head and recover mentally.”
Doherty celebrated his victory in the 36th Belfast City Marathon in style with a bottle of bubbly. The May Bank Holiday race was a triumph for many as they competed in excellent sunny conditions.
The Wheelchair Event in Belfast has become increasingly popular with competitors in recent years. It follows the same route as the main Marathon Race and the Team Relay Event and all participants must complete the event in less than 6 hours.
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