Fireman to run marathon blindfolded

FIREMAN Padraig (aka Podge) Thompson is calling on fellow Dublin City Marathon participants and spectators to guide him as he attempts to run this year’s marathon blindfolded.

Following his famed 2014 marathon, carrying a child mannequin weighing 40KG and a spectacular half way marathon marriage proposal, this year Podge will attempt to complete the 26 miles blindfolded in a bid to raise awareness of the darkness faced by young people today.

In order to make his latest attempt achieveable next Monday, October 26, Podge will be attached via a tether to good friend and fellow fireman Geoff Tracey. He will be completely relying on Geoff to guide him through the 26 mile route as they tackle thousands of fellow runners, empty water bottles, traffic cones, changes in terrain and numerous obstacles.

Due to the nature of his job, Podge (34) knows first hand the heartache experienced by young people and families as a result of mental health issues. He wants to raise awareness for all the little superheroes out there suffering in darkness that all it takes is for someone to reach out and hold their hand and guide them through their difficult times.

By showing their support next Monday, fellow participants and spectators will showcase those invaluable moments where friends, family, teachers, guardians and strangers alike can offer positive words, encouragement and gestures that can go such a long way in helping someone, especially children, in their darkest moments.

 Podge, a Clondalkin man based at Tallaght Fire Station, tation, said:

 “Unfortunately, as frontline emergency service members, my colleagues and I experience first hand devastating situations involving young children. This year I have chosen to take on this difficult challenge, not only to raise awareness for all those little superheroes out there that sometimes need help when no one else can see them looking for help, but also in a bid to raise much needed funds for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin.”

He added: “As a father, both my four-year-old son and my 13-year-old stepson have paid visits to the hospital. But it is my work as a fireman that made me realise just how important this hospital is to the safety, health and lives of our children.

“It’s been a tough few months training but I’m blessed that my fiancee, sons, family and friends are huge supporters and I hope, together with Geoff, that we do these vulnerable young superheroes proud.”

If you’d like to sponsor Podge in his marathon bid, donations to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital can be made at www.cmrf.org/user_main/fundraiser/35194