Fun run returns to Belvedere

Published: Wed 18 Aug 2010, 5:30 PM

After a very successful first Ability Fun Run in 2009, Mullingar Harriers and International Service Ireland (ISI) will be hosting their second Annual Ability Fun Run on Sunday, September 19.This year’s event will be a 5k run held on the beautiful grounds of the Belvedere House and Gardens in Mullingar. The run will start at 11am and prizes made by women with disabilities in West Africa will be presented at 1pm.“Last year’s run was a great success. We had 140 runners who all really enjoyed it and raised almost €5,000 on the day” said Aidan Leavy, Directorof ISI. “This year, we want to build on that success, and continue to raise money to support people with disabilities in West Africa. The run is only5k this year and will take place within the grounds of Belvedere House and Gardens, so it really is an event for the whole family whether you want to run, hop, skip or walk” he added.All proceeds will go towards developing small businesses for people with disabilities in Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa thathas been named by the UN as the fourth poorest country in the world.“Polio and meningitis have yet to be eradicated in Burkina Faso which contributes to a high number of people having some form of disability - about 15 per cent of the whole population. So we provide people with basic management training and the financial means to start small businesses so that they can put food on the table and hopefully earn a decent living”, he added.“We’re delighted to be associated with the Ability Fun Run again this year. Even though Ireland is experiencing extremely tough times at the moment, its important not to forget the plight of others who are far worse off and proceeds from this event will help in a very tangible way” saidBobby Begley of Mullingar Harriers.Registration to participate costs €25, which includes an after-run BBQ. Registration for underage runners is €10. Sponsorship cards are available in Days Bazaar news agents and Brian’s Treasure Chest in Mullingar.There will also be face painting, clowns and music on the day. So save that date, bring the whole family and have some fun. For more information, call Aidan at 086-1732347 or visit the ISI website at www.is-ireland.ie.