26 Extreme have announced that the Southern Area Hospice Services (SAHS) will be the charity of the year for the Mourne Way Marathon challenge event which will be held on 9th June 2012.
The event caters for all abilities, whether you are an ‘ultra’ athlete and keen to run the 52 mile (85km) ultra marathon or just a beginner runner who would like to get involved in the 5k or 10k run, there are numerous events on the day that will cater for all. Registration fees for each event applies and these vary depending on which event you are registering for. The SAHS are asking all participants to raise a further £30 sponsorship to take part in the Mourne Way Challenge. On the day the following events will take place in Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor: Ultra Marathon (52mile), Marathon (26miles), Challenge Walk (26miles), Half Marathon (13mile), 10k run/walk, 5k run/walk and a children’s race. The Mourne Way Marathon event initially began in 2009 and was the first off road marathon in Ireland. Since its inception the numbers have increased year upon year and 2012 is set to have the largest attendance to date.
Local radio host and personality ‘Big O’ will be participating in the 10k run on the day and is already getting into shape for the event. Big O added, ‘I’m very excited about this year’s Mourne Way Marathon and I’ve already started my training. I hope there are plenty runners and walkers alike willing to get their runners on for a great day out and raise money for a fantastic cause!’
Leanne Rice (Regional Marketing Officer for Newry & Mourne) commented, ‘We are delighted to be involved with the event this year and we are very grateful to 26 Extreme for their support. It is fantastic to see a local event in the Mourne area appealing to athletes locally and internationally as far as New Zealand and Canada. Last year the interest in the event was incredible with 712 participants and this year I hope that there will be even more interest as we celebrate the Olympic year. It is fundamental this year, more so now than ever, that we get as much support as possible due to having our highest ever fundraising target on record of £2.23 million! Unfortunately the cost of living and running costs have increased and as a result we have had to ultimately increase our fundraising target.’
In January it was announced that the SAHS 2012 fundraising target would increase from £2.1million in 2011 to £2.23million. This is a large hike and financially 2012 will be very testing the SAHS a charity. For a registration pack or further details please contact Leanne or Rachel in the Fundraising office on (028) 30251333 or email quinnr@southernareahospiceservices.org. A full list of the events on the day can also be found at www.26extreme.com