Marlay Park to host Darkness into Light event for first time

OVER 10,000 people have registered for the capital’s Darkness into Light events for Pieta House which will take place for the first time in Marlay Park this year.

Supported by Electric Ireland, Darkness into Light is a unique, early morning fundraising event which begins in darkness at 4.15am as thousands of people walk or run a 5km route while dawn is breaking.

The Marlay Park’s walk will set off and finish at Marlay Park House on the morning of Saturday, May 9.

Walks will also be held in the Phoenix Park where it will begin at Chesterfield Avenue and finish up at the Papal Cross while a Malahide route will start and finish at Malahide Castle.

“Darkness Into Light is a truly unique and moving event,

? said Joan Freeman, founder of Pieta House.

“The sight of thousands of people in yellow t-shirts walking and running towards dawn is simply extraordinary. The event has turned into a national awareness campaign loved by Irish people everywhere. I’m encouraging everyone to get out and register. Don’t let this special event pass you by.

?

Now in its seventh year, last year’s events attracted 80,000 participants in 39 locations across Ireland, including in London and Sydney

With the number of locations doubling this year, organisers are expecting over 100,000 people to take part. A total of 80 venues will host the event on the island of Ireland and abroad including Australia, Canada, England, Scotland and the USA.

While Darkness Into Light raises much needed funds, it is also about awareness, solidarity and local communities.

This year, Pieta House is asking those taking part to connect with others at the event. Walkers/runners are encouraged to speak to the person beside them, tell a story or simply say hello, connect and acknowledge one another.

Visit www.pieta.ie for more information.