The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Rose Maggie sets off running to raise cash for charities in Tralee and USA
ROSE of Tralee Maggie McEldowney is dedicating the remaining months of her reign to an athletic charity effort.
She plans to raise money for good causes on both sides of the Atlantic by taking part in a variety of 5k, 10k and long distance running events around the world before handing over her sash and tiara next August.
In the process, she will raise funds and awareness for two charities - Baile Mhuire Day Care Centre for the Elderly in Tralee and Young Irish Fellowship Club in her hometown of Chicago.
Baile Mhuire provides personal and medical care that helps older people to remain independent in their home for as long as possible. Employing 16 people, the facility provides a full range of care to the elderly five days a week.
The first event will be the Tralee International Half Marathon on Saturday March 18, during her first return visit to Tralee since she was crowned Rose of Tralee.
Maggie will return to Ireland on March 13 for the second leg of her tour of Ireland and during her visit she’ll be a guest at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin.
“What better way to honour the Irish diaspora than through two Irish charity organizations from across the world. For me, there’s no better place to honour it than from where it all started this year - in the beautiful town of Tralee,” said Maggie.
Maggie appealed to the public to get behind her fundraising effort and help two worthy causes.
“Please consider a donation to support my efforts for the charities; your gift will be shared between these very deserving causes,” she said.
“Through your generosity, you will be with me every step of the way, and I hope you know what a tremendous impact your gift will have on the lives of so many all across the world,” Maggie said.
Anyone who would like to support Maggie’s efforts can log on to www.youcaring.com/roseoftraleeracesforcharity.