Everyone ready to start the 5k race with Westmeath footballer Anna Jones, who was the official starter for the event.

Fun run in September sun for St Colman’s NS

Sinéad O’Loughlin

A crowd of hundreds turned out on Sunday for the St Colman’s NS Annual 5k Fun Run.

Guest of honour past-pupil and Westmeath ladies footballer Anna Jones blew the starting whistle for the 400 people from the whole school community who took part, including students past, present and future, parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family, friends and pets.

Runners, joggers, walkers, cyclists, scooters and supporters completed the looped course from the Mullingar Shamrocks grounds.

School principal Ger Beehan explained that the event is normally held in June but this year’s was postponed due to a date clash with a Westmeath Senior Footballers’ match.

The rescheduling worked out weather-wise when after a morning of downpours, a blue sky and sunshine appeared for the duration of the event.

Mr Beehan said the annual fundraiser is always a fun run rather than a race, but credit to Lilly Walsh, Brian Murphy and Maisie Walsh, who came home first, second and third respectively.

After their runs and walks, the crowds were welcomed into the school hall for well-earned drinks and snacks and catching up among the school community.

Mr Beehan said: “This is always such a lovely, family event. It’s a fun run; it’s not competitive. The boys and girls come along with their families and it doesn’t matter where they come – they all get a homework pass, which is possibly more appealing than a medal! It’s nice for everyone to get together.

“It’s also a welcome fundraiser to help ensure we have the best of everything for the children, especially this year with our new building including two new special classes.

“As always, we are grateful to our parents and Parents Association. It’s great to see the parents and staff coming together to put on such a big event. It’s a lovely way to start the year.”