Derek competing in last month’s Omagh Half Marathon.
The Derry running fraternity has been stunned by the sudden death of Derek Harkin.
Derek, a popular member of Foyle Valley Athletic Club, passed away suddenly at his home yesterday afternoon. He was 44.
A dedicated runner, the father of four completed last month’s Omagh Half Marathon and was in training to take part in the Walled City Marathon due to take place in Derry on 1 June next.
After joining Foyle Valley in 2006, he participated in numerous half marathons including Berlin, Dublin and last year’s Walled City Marathon.
He ran the London Marathon (in aid of Foyle Hospice) on two occasions, achieving a personal best of three hours 21 minutes in the 2009.
Denise Doherty, secretary of Foyle Valley AC, said his death had stunned not just members of the Derry club but the entire running fraternity throughout the North West.
Expressing sympathy to his family, she said: “Derek was a character. He was fun loving and there was always great banter when running with him.
“He had a large circle of friends and they, as are we, are shocked by his sudden passing.”
Denise concluded: “Our deepest sympathies are with Derek’s family and friends at this very sad time.”
Tributes are being paid on the Foyle Valley Facebook page with many describing Derek as a “true gentleman.”
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