Ten nationalities represented at sanctuary running group
A NEW Tallaght running group centred on integration and inclusivity was launched at the Dodder Valley Parkrun on Saturday morning – with more than 10 nationalities being represented on the day.
Called the Tallaght Sanctuary Runners, the group of 30 embarked on their first get-together on Saturday, with one of their members finishing first at the parkrun.
Naima Forde from Sanctuary Runners told The Echo: “Around 30 Sanctuary Runners attended our Tallaght group launch.
“More than 10 different nationalities were there including Afghanistan, Algeria, Botswana, Somalia, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ukraine, Irish, Pakistan and Bolivia.
“Members signed up to join the new group from Tallaght and the surrounding areas, from emergency accommodation in Tallaght Cross, Cookstown and from Citywest.
“There were 107 runners in the Dodder Valley Parkrun on Saturday and the first finisher was a member of Sanctuary Runners who also runs with Tallaght AC, Ivan Tuahuku.”
The central focus of the Sanctuary Runners initiative – which has groups all over the country – is to bring asylum seekers, refugees and the local community together through running.
“Events like these are free, accessible and inclusive,” added Ms Forde.
“They provide a safe space for people who have a common interest in running or walking.
“When you’re running shoulder-to-shoulder with someone, the labels of being an asylum seeker, refugee or migrant disappear.
“It opens doors and gives opportunities to break down barriers and build friendships between locals and people who are new in the country.”
All are welcome to join the Tallaght Sanctuary Runners, who meet every fortnight at the Dodder Valley Parkrun, with the next event taking place on Saturday, May 20 at 9.15am.
“We hope many local people will come to run, walk or volunteer with Tallaght Sanctuary Runners over the coming weeks and months,” said Ms Forde.
“We would love to see real friendships develop as the group grows.”
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