Last chance to take part in marathon challenge

ORGANISERS of the 32 Marathons Challenge have issued a final call to athletes, joggers and groups of friends in County Londonderry to join long distance runners, Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw, as they aim to complete 32 marathons in 32 consecutive days across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

The 32 Marathons Challenge reaches Co. Londonderry tomorrow (Thursday), where former GAA player Anthony Tohill will be among the local sports stars supporting the event to help raise money for Autism NI.

Anyone can sign-up to do a full marathon, half marathon or take part in a relay team and the event organisers are urging people to get involved to help raise money for a very worthwhile cause.

As well as County Londonderry, the marathon challenge visits Co. Tyrone - July 23, Co. Antrim - July 24, Co. Down - July 25, Co. Armagh - July 26 and Co. Fermanagh - July 27.

The event organiser in Northern Ireland, Colin Telford, is hoping local people will come out in force to help support the long distance runners in their home county.

“This is the first time a challenge like this has come to Northern Ireland and I hope local people will take part in this unique event whether it is for fun, fitness or simply to raise funds for a worthwhile cause,” he said.

“Gerry and Ken have begun their marathon challenge in the Republic of Ireland and have received a fantastic response so far. They will arrive in Northern Ireland within the next week to begin a marathon in each county and are hoping that local people will show their support whether running alongside them or supporting their challenge through raising funds for Autism NI,” he added.

Anyone interested in taking part in the challenge can visit www.32marathons.com for further information on the event, training plans and fundraising tips. Registration is 25 and this initial donation can be deducted from the total amount raised.