Fine crowds, a strong field, and vital fund-raising
DUHALLOW Athletic Club had reason to salute patrons far and wide that returned to Newmarket in support of their popular 10 mile run.
With highly attractive prizes on offer, the Duhallow event was sure to attract a top-class field and, again, Ethiopian native Hiko Tonosa, currently based in the DSD Club in Dublin, stormed home to complete back-to-back titles.
Not even a chilly Arctic wind failed to deter an impressive field from supporting the event.
Duhallow Chairman Donie Shine said a feel-good factor surrounding the staging contributed immensely to the success of the event, and he applauded the support of athletes and clubs from many parts of the country.
“There is widespread appreciation for the dedication and efforts that so many people brought to the task of ensuring the success of the event. Once again, clubs and organisations right across Duhallow rowed in with us to ensure everything worked to a tee”, said Donie.
“No massive staging can function without sponsorship. The organisers would like to extend a huge thanks to those that made it possible to generate an attractive prize-fund with the Ayrton Group as main sponsors so generous to the staging,” he said.
For any public or sporting event, safety is a priority. Duhallow AC expressed thanks to Newmarket Garda Sergeant Dan Murphy and his colleagues for devising a traffic management on approach roads into Newmarket, in addition to Ambulance and Red Cross outlets, with appreciation to the Hi Land used as race headquarters.
The staging incorporated a walk the supported the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, and campaigner Orna Beirne was on hand to pay tribute to the Duhallow AC organisers for their support to the cause.
“The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association is the only organisation of its kind in Ireland providing vital care and support to families living with this condition. MND affects everybody differently but usually the disease will result in a loss of independence. IMNDA aims to alleviate frustration, fear and anxiety that is often felt by the whole family,” she said.
“Services by the Association are immediate and free of charge and include the provision of equipment; home visits by an MND Nurse; financial assistance towards home care; and counselling. Donations to the IMNDA matter more than you realise; without fundraising and donations we simply would not be here. Over 80 per cent of our income comes from the public, and any contribution is absolutely vital to families affected by MND,” said Orna.