Samaritans invite local people to join ‘Samarathon’ this summer
THE Samaritans Newry and Dundalk branch are inviting supporters to join the ‘Samarathon’ by running, jogging or walking to fundraise for the charity.
the Samaritans launched ‘Samarathon’, a virtual marathon, as an exciting fundraising initiative that encourages supporters to run, jog or walk a marathon distance in their own time over the month of July. Participants can sign up for free at www. samaritans.org/samarathon and select the Newry/Dundalk branch as the branch they want to fundraise for.
‘We here in the Samaritans of Newry & Dundalk want to motivate more people to get active to improve their mental wellbeing. Rather than focus on a single physical endurance challenge that requires participants to run 26.2 miles in one stretch, ‘Samarathon’ is a way for the people of South Down, South Armagh and North Louth to take on this marathon challenge at their own pace over the entire month of July,’ said Branch Director, Eileen Campbell.
‘As we begin to emerge from the strictest lockdown rules, exercise, so vital for our wellbeing, is a big part of the next step. The ‘Samarathon’ allows you to observe the Government guidance on exercise, all while social distancing. It’s a challenge you can do on your own, with members of your household, or join with friends, family and work mates virtually, supporting each other’s progress wherever you are.’
She added: ‘A normal marathon can be a huge commitment, that’s why ‘Samarathon’ is so interesting. It allows people to go at their own pace, either walking, running or a mixture of both. Whatever your age or ability, it’s a challenge to do in your time, at your pace, wherever you live or work. This fitness-fundraising initiative is focused on feeling good. We hope supporters will encourage their friends and family of all ages to take part as it’s an achievable challenge they can share and enjoy.’
In this current climate we really need the public’s continued support. Due to the cancellation of many of our fundraising events, we’re facing a significant loss of funding, so we’re urging the public to help us ensure that we continue to be here for anyone who needs support. Its free to sign up to ‘Samarathon’, but we’d love for everyone to raise whatever they can to support us here in the Samaritans of Newry & Dundalk and help us continue to be there for anyone struggling to cope.’
Anybody interested in raising funds can sign up for free at www.samaritans.org/samarathon to take part in the challenge and select the local branch at www.facebook.com/Samaritans. Newry.Dundalk/ and twitter twitter.com/SamaritansNewry