Write a commentWith this time of the year putting a 'Spring' in our step some of the fitter among us will be turning their minds to running and not just running but running a marathon.
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Marathons have invaded almost every city in the Western world and have three main purposes: keeping fit, showing off and raising money for charity. The Big Three on this island are Dublin, Belfast and, of course, Newry.
Last year, as an example to us all, Newry man Cormac Cranney ran the Berlin Marathon to celebrate: a) his 40th birthday, b) the Berlin Marathon's 40th anniversary and c) the 40th anniversary of Samaritans starting out in the Newry/Dundalk area. Cormac also used the opportunity to raise money for the local branch of Samaritans.
If that doesn't inspire you to dig out your trainers and start training, then you're probably beyond saving. If you do get fit enough to enter a marathon and are looking for a good cause to sponsor then, like Cormac, you need look no further than your local Samaritans.
Of course, it may be that you are one of these virtuous people who rise at 6am and jog around the block before work, irritating your neighbours. A little bundle of smugness like you doesn't need a couch-potato like me to jog you into jogging, but Samaritans will still happily accept any money that you raise.
The local branch of Samaritans is located at 19 St Coleman's Park, Newry,
Samaritans offer non-judgemental, confidential emotional support all day, every day so, if you need to talk, you can call in at the Branch, ring 028 (048) 302 66366, or email them at jo@samaritans.org.
