Festive cheer evident at Lough Boora Santa Dash
Festive cheer descended on Lough Boora Discovery Park last Sunday with the annual Lough Boora Santa Dash taking place.
Huge crowds turned out to support the charity 5K/1K charity run event in aid of Feileacáin, which supports bereaved parents to offer support to anyone affected by the death of a baby around the time of birth.
Considering the recent period of exceptionally difficult weather conditions, all involved were extremely fortunate that the sun shone for the duration of the event and the rain stayed away which made the day. There was a fantastic atmosphere at the event which saw VIPs such as Santa Claus and Mrs Claus in attendance.
Ferbane AC and Lough Boora Running Group extend huge thanks to Bord na Móna and the visitor experience staff at Lough Boora for their newly installed Santa’s grotto and park decorations. Their hard work really added to sense of Christmas spirit. Pat Keating and his ‘Rock on Paddy’ roadshow provided music and lots of laughs for the assembled crowds.
A total of 113 registered runners and walkers crossed the line at the 5K making it one of the most successful runs yet. T
he 5K race winner was Niall O’Callaghan from West Limerick AC clocking a fantastic time of 15:49. The first female home was Emily Grennan of Tullamore Harriers in a hugely impressive 18:06.
The joint organisers, Lough Boora Running Group and Ferbane AC, acknowledge the contribution of a few key personnel without whose assistance the run could not have happened. Bord na Móna and Midlands 103 have been "wonderful partners" as always. The venue provided and publicity about the event are much appreciated and never taken for granted. The army of volunteers that oversaw car parking, registration, course stewarding, and post-race refreshments helped to contribute to a great morning.
Offaly Civil Defence was on hand to keep everyone safe and well and Teach Lea Committee provided their excellent community hall facility for the welcome tea and goodies after. The race sponsors and ‘GoFundMe’ contributors were fantastic once again. Finally huge thanks to everyone who attended on the day to make a great event with a huge sum of money raised.
Next up for Ferbane AC is the St Stephen’s Day Charity Mile in Ferbane Business Park on Tuesday, December 26, with further details to follow.