Runner sent wrong way at Ulster Triathlon

A race marshal sent one of the favourites in the wrong direction during the running section of the race, and controversy flared.

After a hurriedly called meeting the organisers decided that Dessie McHenry, the unfortunate athlete sent the wrong way, and Tom Heaney, who actually crossed the line first, should share the title.

However, one of the organisers, Con O’Callaghan, stressed the decision to award joint first place in the triathlon was agreed by the two runners involved.

And he was surprised to read in the weekend press that favourite for the event, Tom Heaney, had described it later as the “worst possible decision.”

Mr O’ Callaghan said: “After the protest committee was set up and agreed to the compromise along with the runners nothing was heard from either runner. We thought the matter had been fairly settled.”