Over 100 people from Athlone and the surrounding area show up to be weighed in for the Slimathon challenge for the period of Lent. Organised by local business people, they hope to raise lots of money for the restoration work that is currently underway at Ss Peter and Paul’s Church in Athlone.
Local councillor and organiser Aengus O’Rourke said, “We expected about 30 people to participate in the Slimathon… and we had over 100 people weigh in on Monday evening. We are thrilled with the response as we want to raise as much money as possible for the local church.”
He continued “People are delighted to get six weeks free membership to the Sheraton Athlone gym and I want to thank them for their help and support with this initiative. Ross O’Callaghan, the manager of the gym was there for the evening weighing in of everyone. Ross has also promised to put together a specialised training programme for each individual which is invaluable when setting on this journey of losing weight.”
Canon Devine from Ss Peter and Paul’s Church thanked everyone for coming and wished everyone success over Lent.
Those who participate have been asked to lose weight over the six weeks of Lent and in turn collect sponsorship for their efforts. The people who lose the most weight will receive great prizes at the end of the competition.