The Carers Association 6th Mini Marathon was a resounding success this year with more participants than ever before.
Runners, walkers and wheelers came out in support of charities from all over the county - particularly the Carer’s Association and took part in the 10k route which kicked off from the Days Inn Hotel at Smithsland Retail Park.
Families were also treated to a great day out, and the sun shone throughout the race. KCLR’s John Walsh blew the starting whistle and the competitors took off. Mayor, Malcolm Noonan, wished the gathering well prior to the off, and John Walsh who also took part in the event, reported back on his progress at intervals, live on KCLR.
St Patricks Brass Band Kilkenny entertained the participants before the start with an excellent selection of music to motivate the professional and the amateur athletes.
The first man to finish the race was Paul Campbell, from Newbridge, Co. Kildare, in a time of 33.46. The second Gentleman to finish was Tommy Shefflin, with James Fox finishing a close third. The first woman to finish was Breda Mulcahy from Loon, Castlecomer, in a time of 40.27. The second lady to finish was Teresa Agar from Coon, Castlecomer, with Sinead Fitzpatrick, Bishop Birch Place, Kilkenny the third woman across the line. The first wheel chair user to finish was Joseph Bradshaw, Callan, Kilkenny.
Cold drinks were provided by sponsors Glanbia supplying fruit juice, and Coca-Cola supplying drinking water. Kelloggs provided all with a range of high energy snacks, with McDonalds and KFC sponsoring free meals for junior volunteers after the event.
Boots chemist provided a range of face creams. Bins for the event were sponsored by Doheny Wheelie Bins, Kilkenny.
Springhill Hotel, Woodies DIY, DID Electric and Halfords supplied a range of spot-prizes for the event.
“It was a great day”, said Pat Grogan, resource centre manager with The Carers Association, Kilkenny/Carlow. “Last year we had almost 600 participants. This year we had 650. The funds raised will go towards providing much needed services to family carers in the area, and further development of our emergency respite service,”, said Mr Grogan.
“It was a great team effort by our fundraising committee, chaired by Sheelagh Lynch, and Paddy Neary of Kilkenny Road runners. The Order of Malta was magnificent on the day and assisted in every aspect of the event. Tony Coy and volunteers from the Irish Wheelchair Association provided great back-up distributing water and equipment.
Special thanks also to those who raised sponsorship. The person who raised the most for The Carers Association will be acknowledged on May 18, in St Francis Abbey Brewery, during a presentation night.
Participants with outstanding sponsorship cards are asked to return them to their relevant charities as soon as possible.
