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The Southern Area Hospice Services first ever King of Gullion 10k challenge held at Slieve Gullion Forest Park on Saturday 2nd November was a fantastic success.
The event was attended by almost 100 runners from far and wide. The inclement weather did little to deter runners, some of whom even showed up in full warrior wear ready to battle the elements and be crowned the King or Queen of Gullion!
Participants set off on a 10k route up the slopes of Slieve Gullion and back tackling the stormy weather as well as the tough terrain. When they reached the highest point of the race Colm Fearon of Newry City Runners was on hand to record some memories and to motivate runners as they prepared for their descent. Meanwhile families and friends of the runners participated in a Family Fun walk and a warrior-themed arts and crafts workshop provided by Sticky Fingers Arts.
Congratulations to our worthy race winners! Men's Race - 1st place and King of Gullion 2013 Damien McDaid, 2nd P.J. O'Neill, 3rd Martin Daly. Women's Race - 1st place and Queen of Gullion 2013 Mary Laverty, 2nd Place Grainne Ni Uallachain, and 3rd Caitlin Malone.
After the race entrants were rewarded for their hard work with medals, hot drinks and pastries from Grounded Slieve Gullion and goodie bags courtesy of 26 Extreme, Mulkerns Eurospar, Free'ist Confectionary and Gerry Murphy. Individual and Team prizes were generously donated from Pflexx Sports, Bull's Gym, Gullion Adventures, O'Neills Sports, Sugar Supper Club, Younique Beauty Salon and Occasions Fiveways.
Thank you to all our volunteers who braved the elements and the altitude to help out on the day, and to our sponsors Slieve Gullion Credit Union and HS Heating for their support. Also a huge thank you to Colm Fearon and Briege Roe who were on hand to photograph our brave Kings and Queens on the day! We are thrilled to report that to date the King of Gullion Challenge has raised over £2400 for Southern Area Hospice Services.
Southern Area Hospice Services must raise £2.3 million in 2013 to keep our services operating at their current level. Due to the economic difficulties currently faced by many, Hospice fundraising is not where it should be at this time of year. We are grateful to all who have participated in our events or helped us in any way towards achieving our annual fundraising target. You can make a donation via Just Giving on our website www.southernareahospiceservices.org or by text SAHS01 £5 to 70070 or by telephoning Hospice fundraising on 028 3025 1333.
