Preparations under way for third annual Splashathon
GOREY is getting ready for the return of the annual 24 hour Splash-a-thon event which takes in the pool at the Ashdown Park Hotel’s Club Ashdown from 9 a.m. on Saturday, February 8 to 9 a.m. on Sunday, February 9 and will see 13 people per hour take to the water.
Volunteers are asked to cycle a bike in the swimming pool for one hour and make a splash against suicide, with the annual event being run by Cycle Against Suicide volunteers Joe and Catriona Dixon in association with the leisure centre at the Ashdown Park Hotel.
The event is in its third year, and all money raised will go towards the Headstrong schools programme within the charity Cycle Against Suicide.
‘The whole thing is about raising awareness about mental health, but it’s a fun event that is enjoyed by family and friends as well as businesses and community groups,’ said Joe.
‘We all know that physical exercise is good for the mental health and where else are you going to see 13 people cycling a bike in a pool? As far as I know it’s the only event like it in Ireland so it’s rather unique’.
Joe said that with a total of 312 hour long spots to be filled, spaces are filling up fast, but already GAA star Conor McDonald has pledged his support and is set return to the water for the event.
‘Anyone who takes part is welcome to use the sauna, jacuzzi and steam room in the hotel free of charge, so it’s a chance to relax as well,’ said Joe.
‘Last year we raised over €6,000 and the year before it was €10,000, but we are hoping to hit the higher mark this year with a bit of luck’.
Joe and Catriona would like to thank the staff at the Ashdown Park Hotel for all of the support so far as well as the volunteers who have taken sponsorship cards and have begun training.
‘To sign up, all you have to do is give the leisure centre a call on 053 9430451 and speak to the organiser in charge. The age range we have had in the past has ranged from 15 up to 82, so really it’s something for everyone,’ said Joe.
The Headstrong programme aims to help teachers and students understand mental health in all its dimensions.