The 22nd annual Cook Medical Women’s Mini Marathon took place over the 26th and 27th of September last in a virtual manner. A total of almost €37,000 was raised as part of the event with 100% of proceeds being distributed between the nominated charities. Mayor Michael Collins presented cheques to the charities at an outdoor, socially distanced presentation last Thursday evening.
Pat Quinlan Chief Executive of Milford Hospice said “We are so thankful to those who participated in the recent Virtual Cook Medical Womens Mini Marathon and chose Milford Hospice as their charity of choice. The funds received will certainly make a difference in this very challenging year and be assured will support our frontline services, who each day deliver person-centred quality care across all of our Hospice services. This covers both in-patient services at Milford Hospice as well as our community services, which are operating from bases in Limerick City, Ennis, Nenagh and Newcastle West. Across communities throughout the entire Mid-West Region, it is so important that we care for each other and please be assured that Milford is fully committed to providing the best care that we can to patients and families because this is no less than they deserve”.
While the Covid-19 pandemic changed the way the event was staged, it certainly didn’t impact the success of the event with over 2350 participants taking part.
Participants from 12 countries took part in this year's event as well as participants from all 32 counties.
Phil Deegan speaking on behalf of Clionas Foundation said “We are delighted to have been chosen as one of the beneficiary charities. This was a great initiative from the organisers and Cook Medical in in response to Covid restrictions. The financial pressures on families of seriously sick children has increased further over the past 8 months so the monies received will bring huge relief to one of the families currently on our waiting list.
"It was also great to be part of a community of charities all getting the platform to increase awareness of the great work we are all involved in”.
With the virtual model, event participants had the opportunity to take part at a time and a place that suited them, and looking at the numbers that took part, this flexible approach certainly worked for many people.
Speaking on behalf of Cook Medical, Bill Doherty, Executive Vice President at Cook said: “We didn’t know what to expect when the race was moved to a virtual format and we are truly delighted with the response. It has been a difficult time for charities and we are honoured to support such a significant fundraiser for the region and want to sincerely thank everyone who participated.”
Race Director John Cleary commented “The response was simply phenomenal. To have numbers of this scale is testament to all involved. We are delighted for the many charities that will benefit and well done to all the ladies (and some men also) that took part. We look forward to the 2021 event with great hope following the success of the 2020 event”.
