Winter came to an official close last Sunday and it feels like spring has been a long time coming. While lots of dedicated runners and walkers have been braving the elements all winter and keeping up their fitness levels, for more, winter can be something of a time of hibernation in terms of getting out on the county’s highways and byways for a walk, jog, or run.
That is why a new fitness challenge, which is being officially launched at 4pm today, Friday, at Clare Lake, Claremorris, could be just the thing to blow away the winter cobwebs and get moving this spring.
The Great Lakes Challenge Series consists of five runs, along routes which take in some of the most stunning lakeside scenery that Mayo has to offer. There are two 8km and three 10km routes in the series, and organisers are urging people of all fitness levels to give one, or all five, of the events in the series a go.
The challenge kicks off with an 8k in Tourmakeady on Saturday February 21. The second event is a 10k in Clonbur on Sunday March 1, followed by another 8k in Carnacon on Saturday March 7. The series continues on Saturday March 21 with a 10k in Claremorris and concludes with a 10k and 5k in Ballinrobe on Saturday April 18.
There is still plenty of time to register for the challenge and to get some training in. What is more, because the challenge stretches over eight weeks, it is a great way to build fitness up as the series progresses. For more information on the Great Lakes Challenge and how to register, find it on Facebook or contact Noel Gibbons on (087 ) 7870055. All events are AAI approved (means all AAI members can do the run ).
Valentine’s 5k Run for your Heart
A special 5k Valentine’s Run for your Heart fun run in aid of Croí takes place Saturday February 14 at 12 noon starting at Ballina Soccer Club. Registration takes place from 11am onwards. A rose will be presented to all women taking part so please wear red to mark the occasion. Refreshments will be served afterwards. Entry €10 and €20 for a family. Contact Ann Egan on (087 ) 4186895.
