Galway ultra-marathon runner, Richard Donovan, is encouraging young and old people to get out and take part in one of two GOAL Miles taking place across the county this Christmas and New Year period.
The Miles will once again offer people an opportunity to exercise, have fun and help raise money and awareness for some of GOAL’s most vital programmes in the developing world.
Now in its 36th year, the GOAL Miles regularly attract tens of thousands of participants each year. People run, jog or walk a Mile in villages, towns and cities the length and breadth of Ireland.
More than 130 Miles will be held across the country over the festive period, confirming the ever-growing popularity of the event.Donovan is particularly encouraging families to make sure their children take part in their local event.
“Anyone, no matter their age or fitness level, can take part in a GOAL Mile, but the individual events become very special when lots of children participate. Not only are young boys and girls exercising and having fun, but they are also learning about - and helping - children in other parts of the world who may be suffering because of hunger, disease or conflict.”
GOAL General Manager, Celine Fitzgerald, says the GOAL Miles have become annual social occasions is communities the length and breadth of the country at this time of the year.
“The GOAL Mile has gone from strength to strength every year since its inception in 1982,” she said. “Over the past three-and-a-half decades, it has become an integral part of Christmas for thousands of families.
“We are grateful to everyone who helps make the GOAL Mile such a popular event, and we are particularly thankful to the local organisers, who give up so much of their time to ensure each event is successful as possible. Thanks to them, and to everyone who takes part, GOAL is able to highlight, and support, some of the most vulnerable communities in the world.”
Miles will be held at two locations in Galway this year: at Spiddal on Christmas Day at 12.15pm; and at The Dangan Running Track, NUIG on Christmas Day from 10am-1pm.
To find a GOAL Mile near you, please visit www.goalglobal.org
