The community of Ballinasloe was buzzing with excitement last week as the town hosted its first annual Ballinasloe 10K Charity Walk/Run. The fundraising drive was organised by local based charity Stargazer Lily Foundation to raise much needed funds and awareness for Galway Hospice, Cancer Research Ireland and Portiuncula Hospital Patient Care.
In preparation for the run, the Stargazer Lily Foundation managed to secure sponsorship from the Carlton Shearwater Hotel, KPW and Cathal Concannons Spar. On top of this, participants also raised a great deal of money from their sponsorship cards, as well as last minute donations on the day. “A huge thank you to all those who have returned their cards and contributed in any way,” says Cathal Dolan.
The run kicked off from the Carlton Shearwater Hotel after noon, with both runners and walkers from the local community and even as far as the UK and Germany. The event toured runners in a loop around Derrymullen, Deerpark, Ballinasloe town centre, ending at the Shearwater Hotel where participants enjoyed light refreshments. Prizes were awarded on an age category basis and first to cross the finish line was Robert Malzeed.
Cathal Dolan event organiser said, “The morning sunshine brought out a lot of last minute walkers on the day, resulting in some registration delays. It was great to see such support from the local community as well as the support from various running clubs and athletic associations that turned out on the day. The crowds were great and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I’m just delighted that we have all managed to raise so much money for the foundation.”
Annette McDevitt, member of the Stargazer Lily Team said, “Our motivation for holding an event of this kind was to raise money and awareness for such worthy charities. We are very grateful for all the help and support we received on the day. A huge thank you to members of the Civil Defence, local Gardai, as well as all the other volunteers who have helped us out in making this 10K event a great success.”
Photographs taken of the event by Evelyn and Oliver Donnellan can be viewed on www.ballinasloe.com Race times will also be made available in the coming few days.
