Marathon fundraising effort

THE athletics world has seen the Olympic Games postponed, the temporary closure of clubs and the cancellation or postponement of all races and events.

This has been a difficult time for athletes and club officials but the necessary life saving strategies and tight restrictions were gladly accepted and adhered to.

Fortunately athletes were able to run outdoors throughout lockdown, starting at 2km, then 5km and 20km from home and Dunleer AC athletes Pat Fitzpatrick and Shane Lavery made the most of their training on the road to prepare for a marathon.

The marathon idea soon became a Breaking 3 Project!

On Sunday last, breaking 3 hours for the marathon around the roads of Dunleer and breaking 3 grand in fund raising for the juvenile end of the club became a reality for the duo.

A beautifully paced marathon from Pat the master and Shane his apprentice was witnessed by friends, family and supporters from all over the county and thanks to amazing support the club will be in a position to buy athletic equipment such as turbo javelins, shots, hurdles and much more.

The funds will also go towards accessing facilities field events.

‘Thanks to everyone that donated the children will benefit greatly.’ said Shane Lavery after the event on Sunday.

Pat added: ‘Thanks so much to everyone in the club and the local community for supporting us today. The crowd of people that were out on the road was unreal. Thanks also to our pacers Mark Carroll, Paddy Mahoney, Richard Califf, Patrick Connolly, Noel Williams, Fran Whelan, Karen Mc Donnell, Sally Clarke and our cycling pacers Jacqueline and Kevin Matthews and Paul Butler. Abfor track and