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Local Runner Eamon Murphy has never been afraid of challenges having completed 9 marathons already including Newry, Dublin and London to name a few.
Being already involved in charitable work at a local level he has decided to raise funds for the local Special Olympics movement by running the Great Wall of China Marathon next year, a challenge involving heat and humidity not to mention the 5,510 steps to climb over the 26.2mile distance on the Wall!
Eamon started the now annual PIPS Newry & Mourne 10k run/5k walk event and it continues to grow into a special event to local forward to annually.
Commenting on his latest challenge Eamon said "To combine my love of running and my interest in volunteering with local charities, I decided on my next challenge. As a 'fun' runner I am lucky to have opportunities to travel to an event practically every weekend of the year with friends, enjoy a run and collect a nice commemorative medal at the end."
"I thought it should be possible to give something to Special Olympics athletes, who perhaps don't have the same amount of opportunities as myself and my friends. I explored the local scene and was introduced to great people like Esther King (coach) and Marian Crossey (Special Olympics Newry City), and other helpers and parents. These highly dedicated (volunteer) coaches and helpers, give immense amounts of time, effort and commitment to the Special Olympic movement locally, and throughout the year."
Having researched quite a few Marathons, Eamon chose the Great Wall of China Marathon "Firstly because it is an extreme challenge for me ( but also because it takes place next May. This means if I am successful I will be able to return home in time to see the Ulster & Newry Special Olympians leave for Limerick and the all-Ireland games in June 2014."
Fundraising events have already begun for the challenge which takes place on the 17th of May 2014. If you'd like to follow his challenge you can check it out on www.facebook.com/GreatWallMarathonForSpecialOlympicsIreland or donate online by visiting www.specialolympics.ie/eamonmurphy
Upcoming events include: Street Collection Kilkeel Co.Down this Saturday 21st Sept: Collections at Oktoberfest Newry 3-6th October: Treadmill Run at Quays Shopping Complex Saturday 2nd November.
