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A sold-out ladies-only fitness race held in Newry has raised over £1,300 for local charity Breast Mates Newry, in memory of co-founder Diane Preece. The event, called IMPACT, was organised by award-winning local fitness coach Tasha D and took place on International Women's Day back in March.
on the day.
Diane Preece was a co-founder of Breast Mates Newry, a support group she helped establish after her own breast cancer diagnosis left her with few local options for women facing similar circumstances. Recognising the gap in community support, she took action alongside fellow advocates to create something that would go on to help many women in the Newry area.
Diane had been an attender of Tasha D's ladies-only fitness classes at The Fun House for a number of years, and continued as an online participant during lockdown. She credited Tasha's coaching with giving her the strength to overcome cancer on her first diagnosis. In what turned out to be their final conversation, in March 2025, Diane expressed her wish that Tasha D would continue making an impact within the local community and supporting women along their journeys.
One year on, she has made good on that wish by organising IMPACT, described as one of Ireland's first ladies-only fitness races. The event took place on Saturday, 7 March at Est.28, Newry's largest Hyrox-affiliated gym, with women of all ages competing in teams of three. The event was held entirely in Diane's memory.
Tasha told Newry.ie: "I have been coaching for over 15 years and have had the privilege of working with women in 20 different countries. However, my deepest passion lies in creating impact within our local community. I strive to help ladies overcome adversity, hardship, and daily challenges as they pursue healthier, fitter lives. It's essential for me that Diane receives the recognition she truly deserves; her legacy will continue to inspire others, and I will keep creating IMPACT in her memory."
The funds raised on the day will go directly to Breast Mates Newry, providing vital support to the charity in the months ahead. The event is a fitting tribute to a woman whose determination to help others left a lasting mark.
