Mayor-rox draws huge crowds and raises vital funds for local charities
1 June 2026
Hundreds of competitors and spectators packed into Melvin Sports Complex on Saturday as Strabane hosted its first ever large-scale Hyrox simulation event, MAYOR-ROX.
Hosted by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, in partnership with Maiden City Games, the major fitness fundraiser attracted almost 300 competitors who took part across a range of solo, relay and Half-Rox categories throughout the day.
The event raised vital funds for the Mayor’s chosen charities for his year in office — PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland and the Castlederg Patient Comfort and Terminally Ill Fund.
Participants travelled from across the North West and beyond to take part in the challenging Hyrox-style event, which combined running with functional workout stations in a fast-paced, inclusive competition format.
Mayor McHugh thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the inaugural event and said the atmosphere throughout the day had exceeded expectations.
“What a fantastic day for Strabane and for everyone involved in MAYOR-ROX,” he said.
“The support from competitors, spectators, volunteers and sponsors was incredible from start to finish and it was brilliant to see so many people coming together for such worthy causes.
“There was a fantastic atmosphere inside Melvin Sports Complex all day and I want to sincerely thank everyone who helped make the event such a success, particularly Maiden City Games, Council staff, volunteers, participants and all those who donated and supported the event.
“It was also great to take part myself alongside Councillor Aisling Hutton, Nora McGowan and Paul McGarvey in the Team Relay section.”
The chip-timed event began at 8.30am with the Male Doubles competition before continuing throughout the day with relay races, solo competitions and the Half-Rox section.
Maiden City Games founder Vincent Sweeney said the response to the event had been outstanding and praised the enthusiasm shown by competitors and supporters.
“We were delighted with how MAYOR-ROX went on the day,” he said.
“The energy and support inside the venue was unbelievable and every competitor should be proud of their achievement.
“It was fantastic to work alongside the Mayor and Council to bring an event of this scale to Strabane and we hope this is just the beginning.”
Further information on the Mayor’s charities is available at www.derrystrabane.com/mayor