THE THIRD annual Great Limerick Run, which is expected to attract more than 8,000 participants, was officially launched in the city last night.
Now established as a highlight on the sporting and social calendar, this year’s event takes place on Sunday, May 6th, and will form the centrepiece of the city’s bank holiday weekend festival Riverfest.
In just two years race numbers have reached nearly 7,000, and the event, in association with The Irish Times, will again encompass a full marathon, a half marathon and six-mile run.
At the launch yesterday in the Georgian House, Pery Square, Limerick, event organiser John Cleary said: “Limerick more than any other city in the country is renowned for its sporting excellence, and as marathon runners ourselves we were extremely anxious to create a running event for the city that did justice to our sporting status.
“With the enormous support of local athletics clubs, city and regional authorities, the Garda, Civil Defence, our sponsors, we have managed to create an event that does the city proud,” he added.
“What makes the Great Limerick Run unique is that there really is a distance for everyone, from the elite or first-time marathon runners, to those trying a half marathon for the first time, and finally to those who may be new to running completely who choose the six-mile race.
“Indeed, this year, after discussions with inspirational Limerick man Gary Kirwan – who lost 13 stone in preparing for the Dublin marathon – we will have an additional earlier start time for the marathon to accommodate those who believe they will finish in a time of between six and 8½ hours.
“In fact we are working with Gary to set up training sessions in Limerick for those wishing to make the Great Limerick Run their first marathon.
“We will have more details of this on the website in the coming days,” Mr Cleary added.
It was confirmed last night that children’s charity Barnardos will be the designated charity partner of the event.
Ruth Guy, director of fundraising and marketing for Barnardos, said the organisation was “thrilled” to be chosen.
“It will be a huge challenge for everyone involved and we hope as many people as possible choose Barnardos as their charity to fundraise for,” she said.
“Support like this allows us to continue to work with more than 6,000 children and families in Ireland.”
Explaining the importance of mass participation events to the midwest region, Eoghan Prendergast of Shannon Development said: “One of the most satisfying elements of an event like the Great Limerick Run is that it showcases just how accessible and tourist-friendly the Shannon region is.
“The run had nearly 60 per cent of our competitors from outside Limerick in 2011, which delivered a massive boost to the city in terms of revenue and increased national and international exposure.”
Discounted entry fees are available online at greatlimerickrun. com until February 1st.
The charges are €60 for the full marathon, €45 for the half marathon and €20 for the six-mile run. Participants can also contact 061-609627.