Special 5k run is launched

A SPECIAL event was launched in Dublin last week that gives members of the public the opportunity to remember family and friends who have passed.

The eight annual Remembrance Run 5k, which last year attracted a record number of over 5,000 entrants, will take place in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, November 10. 

It’s a day when hundreds of people can walk, jog or run five kilometres and remember family or friends passed or some who may be currently struggling with illness or other life challenges.

It is an event with its own special atmosphere that includes choirs, music, song, commentary, and a Special Wall of Remembrance. Participants also receive a special souvenir candle, as well as an event goodie bag.

Frank Greally, who in association with Athletics Ireland in 2012, founded the Remembrance Run 5k, said: “It was the passing of the legendary sportswriter Con Houlihan that inspired me to set up this special event in association with Athletics Ireland.

“Con was a dear friend and mentor and his columns on sport and literature in the Evening Press earned him a huge following over many years.”

Mr Greally has also written a song about the event titled ‘Remember in November’. 

He said: “It was Fr Brian D'Arcy who inspired me to write the Remembrance Run song when I heard him say at another great friend's funeral, the late RTE sports broadcaster, Jimmy Magee: 'As long as Jimmy is remembered, he will never die.'”

Speaking at the launch, Lord Mayor of Dublin Paul McAuliffe said: “Remembrance Run is a really unique event, and offers us the chance to pause, and remember family and friends who have passed.

“I would encourage everyone to go along to the Phoenix Park on November 10 and experience the special atmosphere that only an event like this can create.”

Athletics Ireland chief executive Hamish Adams took part in the 2018 event and is already looking forward to what promises to be another great day in the Phoenix Park.

“Remembrance Run is an event that all of us in Athletics Ireland look forward to each year,” said Mr Adams.

“It’s a day about remembering those that we’ve lost.

“We’re delighted that once again, we will have a special Wall of Remembrance erected at the race finish on Furze Road in the Phoenix Park.

“Every year, this wall is filled to capacity with signatures and messages, and there is something very special about people coming together to remember close family and friends in this special way.”

If you would like to share a special memory of a loved one or add some names to our online Remembrance Wall, you can do so by emailing: [email protected]

Also, further information and updates relating to the event can be found at www.remembrancerun.ie