News

Mayor McHugh to host District’s first ever Hyrox Simulation event at redeveloped Melvin Sports Compl

25 February 2026

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, has announced exciting plans for the district’s first ever mass participation Hyrox simulation event this Spring.
MAYOR-ROX will see the First Citizen team up with local provider Vincent Sweeney of Maiden City Games to host the event at the Melvin Sports Complex in Strabane on Saturday May 30^th.

The event will be a fundraiser for Mayor McHugh’s chosen charities for his year in office - PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland Charity and the Castlederg Patient Comfort and Terminally Ill Fund.

Hyrox is an indoor fitness competition that combines running and functional workout stations and is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
It is popular for its accessibility and because it tests competitors’ endurance, strength and running.

The event was launched this week at the Melvin Sports Complex which is currently undergoing a £3.2 million upgrade.

“I’m delighted and excited to be offering athletes the opportunity to compete in my MAYOR-ROX the first ever Hyrox simulation event in the District,” said Mayor McHugh.
“Maiden City Games specialise in creating a high-octane, adrenaline fuelled experience for competitors and spectators alike and the Melvin Sports Complex halls and pitches are an ideal venue for them to work their magic.
“Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or taking part in your first event, it will be an unforgettable day out and will help raise much needed funds for my chosen charities.”
MAYOR-ROX is an all-day event, competitors will be chip timed and be split into different categories with awards for each category winner.

Every competitor will also receive a free commemorative event t shirt.

Vincent Sweeney of Maiden City Games said he was proud to be bringing his first event to Strabane.

“"I am absolutely delighted to be bringing the Hyrox simulation to Ireland and to the Strabane community,” he said.
“Having competed in the World championships in Nice in France, I can see the community it can create and that this is a sport that brings people together and is for everyone." 

“I’m looking forward to seeing you all at the start line in Strabane!” 

MAYOR-ROX entrants can register as a solo or two, three and four person relay teams, while there is also a Half-Rox section for those not ready for the full distance.
Registration is open now at www.derrystrabane.com/mayorrox.
There is a minimum donation of £50 for participants who can also carry out their own fundraising for additional sponsorship for the charities.
The website also has detailed advice for competitors including safety rules and a code of conduct.
Competitors will receive their official start time well in advance of competition day after the organisers have allocated entries into the various categories.
The PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity provides essential support to individuals, families, and communities affected by suicide, self-harm, or poor mental health.
They offer free, unlimited, and confidential counselling services, as well as a crisis walk-in centre in Belfast and telephone support at other regional hubs.
Their dedicated team works to support those in crisis and to promote mental wellbeing across the region.
The second charity, the Castlederg Patient Comfort and Terminally Ill Fund, delivers vital aid to people living with chronic or terminal illness in the Castlederg area.
By providing specialist equipment, transport support, and access to complementary services, the Fund helps individuals remain at home during treatment while also easing the financial and emotional burden on families.
It also supports those who need temporary accommodation near hospitals when their loved ones are receiving treatment elsewhere.
For further information on the Mayor’s Charities and how to donate visit derrystrabane.com/mayor.