Limerick’s running ladies and participants of the 2010 Limerick Women’s Mini-Marathon have been urged to ensure they are prepared for the annual event by taking part in Meet and Train sessions across Limerick over the coming weeks.
The specially convened sessions are aimed at encouraging people to get fit and prepare for the mini-marathon, which takes place around the University of Limerick campus on Sunday October 3 next.
In 2009, the 7-kilometre event attracted approximately 4,000 competitors from all over Ireland.
The Leas Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, Councillor Michael Sheahan said the event was now a major fixture on the local sporting and social calendar.
Speaking at the launch of the mini-marathon in Limerick County Hall today, Cllr. Sheahan continued: “I am delighted to learn that so many people are again rolling up their sleeves to take part in this year’s event. This memorable annual occasion is made extra special by the huge funds raised for various charities at local, national and international level. In addition to the obvious competitive and fundraising elements to this mini-marathon, it is also a unique social event for women. For example, preparation for the mini-marathon begins many weeks before the event actually takes place.”
Cllr. Sheahan praised the organisers and sponsors of the event, which he said would deliver a timely economic boost to the City and County. “A considerable amount of organising work goes into making events such as the Mini-Marathon a success. Limerick AC has worked tirelessly to ensure the continued success of the mini-marathon. From the registration of participants to the organisation of the race on the day, the extensive work that is carried out has made the event one of the largest and most successful of its kind in Ireland”, added the Leas Cathaoirleach.
Commenting on the Meet and Train sessions being held throughout the City and County, Councillor Sheahan stated: “I would like to congratulate the County Limerick Local Sports Partnership for organising these meet and train events, which help to ensure that runners and walkers are aware of and prepared for the physical demands placed on their bodies by participating in October’s mini-marathon.”
Phelim Macken of the County Limerick Local Sports Partnership said the increasing popularity of mass participation events throughout Limerick and Ireland was helping to encourage greater numbers of people to exercise and stay healthy.
“The Mini-Marathon drives competitors to set a motivating target for themselves to remain fit and healthy. We encourage anyone taking part in the event to join our Meet and Train group groups. In recent weeks, mini-marathon participants have been gathering in Newcastle West, Abbeyfeale, Athea, Rathkeale, Castletroy and Knocklong to walk and run along the County’s Sli Na Slainte routes. With the other main mass participation event in the County, The Great Limerick Run now confirmed as an annual event we are planning to continue holding the meet and train groups throughout the year.”
Meet & Train Sessions for Women, hosted by Limerick AC’s fitness expert Edel O Shea, are also taking place each week on Monday at 6pm at Shelbourne Park, while the Fit4Life group meets outside the Ambassador Dry Cleaners in Raheen on Fridays at 6pm.
For more on the 2010 Limerick Women’s Mini-Marathon see www.limerickminimarathon.com. Information relating to Meet and Train sessions is available on the County Limerick Local Sports Partnership website, www.cllsp.ie.
