Over 350 participate in AIT AC/South Westmeath Hospice 5km Race
Martin Lyons, Mullingar Harriers, winning the men's race
The second annual AIT Athletics Club/South Westmeath Hospice 5km race took place today with over 350 eager participants from all over Ireland. It is expected that the race will raise more than €18,000 for the charity.
The race was started by Hector Ó hEochagáin, who made a few fun remarks before the race began. Hector mingled with the participants and has promised to come back next year to actually run the race.
The male winner was Martin Lyons of Mullingar Harriers with a time of 16:39 and the female winner was Aileen McNamara from Athenry AC with a time of 19:35.
Speaking about the success of the event, organiser and Sports Manager in AIT, Gordon Brett, said: “We are delighted with the turn-out on Sunday, particularly since the Great Ireland Run is also happening today. This race is well regarded among serious and semi-serious athletes, so the competition was keen to win it. AIT has the perfect facilities for the race, making it a great partnership between ourselves and South Westmeath Hospice.”
Oliver Kenny, Marketing Manager with race sponsors Calor Direct, said: “Calor Direct are very proud of our relationship with the South Westmeath Hospice as we understand the value of hospice work around the country. I would like to compliment AIT and the South Westmeath Hospice on organising such a wonderful day. Calor Direct had over 20 staff members from around Ireland participate in the race this year. We thoroughly enjoyed it and we are already looking forward to next year’s race.”
“The race is expected to raise around €18,000 when all of the proceeds are collected. I want to thank all of the participants for giving up their time to come along and support this great cause,” added Dr Tony Lowry Chairman of the South Westmeath Hospice.
