Pasta giants Buitoni have been announced as the new title sponsor of this weekend’s Connemarathon, ensuring that the most spectacular running event in the country has a prestigious backer.
The move has been welcomed by the race organisers who see the link up with the fresh pasta company as a perfect synergy.
“Attaining a sponsor is a difficult task at present as many companies are reducing or even axing their sponsorship budget completely. So, when Buitoni extended their commitment to the Connemarathon, I saw it as confirmation of the high esteem in which the event is now held,” said Ray O’Connor, Race Director,
Speaking at the sponsorship announcement Buitoni Marketing Manager, Anne-Claire Monde highlighted that the sports market is one which Buitoni is actively targeting as Buitoni fresh pastas are an excellent fuel for an active and healthy lifestyle. It is for this reason that we saw a strong synergy between Buitoni and the Connemarathon”.
Buitoni's fresh pasta range is a perfect fit to the Connemarathon brand as many athletes and exercise enthusiasts turn to pasta to load up on carbohydrates in order to feed their energy needs. And they'll need all the energy they can get to cover what is rumored to be one of the most beautiful but toughest marathons in the world.
Race director, Ray O'Connor, made a direct link between the rampant demand for entries to this years’ Connemarathon and the economic downturn “There is always huge demand for Connemarathon entries but this year it sold out four months in advance. I believe having an end goal in sight really helps to keep people on track and people are using our race as a motivational tool. We all have to tighten our belts and walking, jogging or running is a cost-effective way to keep fit without the heavy price-tag.”
The Buitoni Connemarathon will take place on Sunday, March 22. Over 3000 people will participate in the event, embarking on the scenic and rugged course around the Maam Turk Mountains, through Leenane and finishing at Maam Cross. The event comprises of a grueling ultra marathon (39.3miles ), a full marathon (26.2miles ) and a half marathon (13.1miles ), appealing to people of all ages and fitness levels.
The event's popularity has grown year-on-year, attracting entrants from over 40 countries; from as far away as Japan and New Zealand. This international appeal is of particular relevance to a global brand like Buitoni.
One of the greatest distance runners of all time, Ron Hill is to take part in the race.
A former world record holder and winner of the Boston and European marathon championships, Ron Hill, now aged 70, is equally famous for having run every single day since 1964 and will be taking part in the popular Half Marathon on Sunday next.
Ray O'Connor said that Mr Hill is a true legend in the world of running, not only for his competitive achievements at International level but the fact that he has not missed a days running in over 45 years - that's amazing.'
Ray continues, 'In this era of economic gloom it is great to have some good news for a change - attracting Buitoni as a title sponsor to a West of Ireland event has been the highlight of my year and now having Ron Hill endorsing the event is just too good to believe.'
The Connemarathon is one of Ireland's sporting success stories; good for both the health and wellbeing of our nation and with the help of Fáilte Ireland is now making a significant contribution to the tourism industry.
