What Hope and Dream means to me

The Hope and Dream 10 to me is a truly remarkable event. I have only missed two of them (through injury) since it started. I put the event on a par with the Dublin City Marathon for atmosphere and colour.

The warmth of welcome that the people of Enniscorthy give the participants is massive and a vital part of the event.

To me it is my favourite event of the year and as I prepare for this event it is a big motivation to keep going.

The love of running is still as strong as ever (even though the movement is a bit slower..) What make this event special is that the fundraising goes to local organisations like the hospice and Hope Centre. There is not a family in Wexford that has not been touched by cancer whether it be a family member or a friend.

What the Hope and Dream does apart from the fundraising is keep the awareness up and the importance of these organisations in the county.

So in summary, yes I will be at the starting line again this year. Crossing the finishing line is magical, the hand shakes and embraces at the end. I always say a running buddy is a buddy for life. My two best friends I met through running. There is a bond that forms and it lasts forever.

I hope the Hope and Dream lasts forever too. Enjoy the training, enjoy building up the mileage, get the right running shoes. If its your first one do the 10k and next year do the 10miles.

Running is good for the head good for the health and this event is very good for the community. RUN ON!!

Alan Corcoran