Virtual 5k relay sees athletics club members raise funds for hospital
By Aideen O'Flaherty
TALLAGHT Athletic Club held a virtual 5k relay on Thursday, which saw nineteen teams of four runners each individually pound the pavement to raise funds for Tallaght University Hospital.
At the time of The Echo going to print, the virtual relay had raised over €1,800 for the hospital, where a significant number of coronavirus patients are currently being treated.
Some members of Tallaght AC that took part in the relay
As efforts are being made to curtail the spread of the virus by implementing social distancing measures, many sports clubs have had to change how they operate while still remaining active and connected.
Since the rules were put in place, many members of Tallaght AC now run alone but are still posting good individual times, and they decided to continue this effort for a good cause through their virtual 5k relay.
Tallaght AC coach, Cecil Johnston, told The Echo: “Despite the postponement of training and the closure of the club facilities during the lockdown, many of our club members have managed to keep themselves on track with quite a number, despite running alone, posting some very good individual times.
“We decided to have a virtual 5k relay to keep the spirit of the club alive during these difficult times…to keep in contact with the members, to remain physically active and to raise funds for the hospital.”
Sarah Jane Kinsella, Stephen Kavanagh, Paul Murphy and Luke Coleman organised and directed the event, with the runners’ efforts raising a substantial sum for Tallaght University Hospital.
“I think it’s a fantastic achievement and contribution by the members of Tallaght AC,” added Mr Johnston, “to contribute to the efforts of the hospital to the community and those that are affected by the virus.”
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