One of the most successful charity athletic events, the Aer Arann Half Marathon, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year.
First run in 2001, this year’s weekend event will be held April 16 to 18 and Temple Street Children’s Hospital will once again be the main beneficiary of the fundraising.
The 2009 half marathon raised €80,000 for vital equipment for the A&E, neo-natal and renal unit, and this year the fundraising will concentrate on the hospital’s neurosurgery appeal to help support children with serious brain and spinal conditions.
First conceived in 2000 when a group of friends from Galway took part in the New York City Marathon, it was decided to try to organise an event on the Aran Islands. Since then the event has continued to attract widespread support. Residents of Inishmore have embraced the race, which is more about participation than competition, ensuring competitors enjoy the hospitality of the island, while also raising funds for a worthwhile Irish charity.
The weekend begins on Friday when participants fly to Kilronan and book into a local B&B. The race takes place on Saturday, catering for both runners and walkers, followed by a night of fun, craic and music on Saturday night. Participants return from Inishmore by Aer Arann on Sunday morning. Flights, accommodation and evening meals are included. Each participant raises €750.
Aer Arann chairman Padraig O’Ceidigh says: “This is the 10th year of this unique event and it has grown in popularity every year. Since its inception the event has raised well in excess of €1 million for charity. This year we will raise in the region of €100,000.”
Angi McNulty of Temple Street Hospital says: “We are delighted to say that the 2009 Aer Arann Half Marathon raised a fantastic €80,000 for vital equipment for our A&E, neo-natal, and renal unit at Temple Street. We would like to thank all the participants for their fundraising efforts.”
People wishing to be part in this year’s 10th anniversary race can contact Angi at [email protected] or phone 01-878 4344. A limited number of places are still available for this year’s event and will be strictly on a first-come first-served basis.
