Marathon men make it 21 in a row
It's a mammoth task for any long distance runner - 32 marathons in 32 days across 32 counties.
But for seasoned runners Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw from Mullingar, it's the challenge of a lifetime and the chance to raise money for Autism NI.
By the time they arrived in Derry they had already run 20 marathons in twenty days. And their 21st started yesterday morning at Energie Fitness club where the men were joined by Gerry Lynch and Noel McMonagle from City of Derry Spartans AC and GAA star Anthony Tohill. A number of local people also gathered at the start line to run with the men.
Despite having already clocked up 524 miles, both Gerry and Ken looked fit and ready to go.
Gerry said: "The challenge will be tough but both Ken and I are ready to take it on. Autism NI is a great cause and we are determined to succeed and raise as much money as possible for the charity and raise awareness of the cause throughout Northern Ireland. Today's marathon will be our first marathon in Northern Ireland."
Mayor of Derry, Councillor Colum Eastwood, said, "We are delighted to be hosting the Derry leg of the 32 Marathon Challenge and are very proud to be supporting a worthy cause."
GAA star Anthony Tohill said:" I will be offering Gerry and Ken my full support during this superhuman challenge. Autism NI is a great cause and I hope this event not only raises much needed funds but also increases awareness of Autism in Northern Ireland."
Jonny Heywood from Energie Fitness club gave yesterday's runners free use of showers, changing rooms and the sauna/steam room, as well as a free two day membership to the club to use after the event.
Autism NI's chief executive officer, Arlene Cassidy, is encouraging as many people as possible to get involved and help raise funds for the very worthy charity.
"Autism NI works with families across the whole of Northern Ireland and we are delighted to be involved in this unique challenge to raise vital funds. Autism is the fastest rising disability in Northern Ireland and the number of people with Autism has increased by 400% in the past five years," said Arlene. "I hope this event will catch the imagination and enthusiasm of Northern Ireland and that through their participation in this exciting challenge, they will help Autism NI to continue to provide a much needed service for families affected by Autism," she concluded.
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Weather for Derry
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 14 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
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Wind direction: South east
