Shock at sudden death of Extreme North founder Harold McGuinness

The sudden death of well-known Moville businessman and fitness enthusiast Harold McGuinness, founder of the hugely successful Extreme North Events, has caused widespread shock and sadness throughout the local community and much further afield.

Harold, aged 72, died after becoming suddenly unwell at his home in Greencastle on Wednesday evening, November 11.

Ambulance personnel and the Coast Guard helicopter attended the residence, but sadly he could not be saved.

A beloved husband, father and grandfather, Harold was a highly respected figure in Inishowen, where he made a significant contribution through his business ventures, sporting interests and support for local communities and charitable causes.

He was best known as the driving force behind Extreme North Events, which he established in 2012, following a successful career in architecture with his Plan-a-Home business.

Through Extreme North, Harold helped put Inishowen firmly on the map as a destination for major sporting events, organising races, marathons and endurance challenges which attracted thousands of participants to the peninsula over the years.

The events also developed a strong tradition of fundraising for good causes and supporting local organisations.

Harold's passion for fitness was much more than a business interest. He was a keen runner and cyclist himself, regularly seen out on the roads around Moville and Greencastle.

Paying tribute, local councillor Martin Farren said Harold's sudden death had sent shockwaves through the community.

“On behalf of the local community, I'd like to offer my sympathies to the family on the very sudden and untimely death of Harold.”

“He was very well-respected in the community. He was a successful businessman who brought a lot of employment to the local area over the years.”

Cllr Farren said Harold had been ahead of his time with Plan-a-Home, which allowed people to choose house designs from a book, while he was subsequently renowned for his fitness events company and the many successful sporting occasions he organised.

He added that it was a very difficult time for Harold's family following such a sudden loss, and extended his thoughts and sympathies to them.

Meanwhile, Harold's funeral will leave his home on Sunday, November 15, at 12.15pm for 1pm Requiem Mass in St Columba's Church, Ballinacrae, followed by burial in the adjoining graveyard.

The Funeral Mass can be viewed live on the Eamonn McLaughlin Funeral Director Facebook page.

May he rest in peace.