Former GAA footballer takes over as new chief of ‘solidarity through sport’ organisation

FOMER Dublin GAA footballer Michael Darragh Macauley is the new CEO of Sanctuary Runners.

The eight-time All-Ireland champion Macauley, who has worked for Dublin’s Northeast Inner City (NEIC), takes over from Sanctuary Runners’ founder Graham Clifford.

Clifford stepped down at the end of last year to focus on the organisation’s international expansion.

Posting on X, Ballyboden St Enda’s club man Macauley, said he was “delighted to take on the CEO role” with the group.

“I’ve been an admirer of the organisation for a long time. The work they are doing with refugees and asylum seekers is needed now more than ever. Hope to see everyone at their nearest group soon,” said Macauley.

Sanctuary Runners operates 40 groups across Ireland and recently launched the Sanctuary Swimmers initiative in collaboration with Swim Ireland.

Macauley believes the group will “help grow our message of solidarity, friendship, respect over the coming years.”

Founder Graham Clifford has moved to the recently created Head of International Development role in an effort to expand the model across the world.

Clifford was “overjoyed” to have Macauley on board.

“A legend on and off the field. He’s displayed through his work in recent years how much he values community in all its rich and wonderful diversity,” said Clifford.

On October 19, the group will host its first Global Solidarity Run in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland Funds, and Strava.