With just three weeks to go, the Mater Hospital Foundation is calling on runners, joggers and walkers to join the fun this April on Inis Mór for the Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon.
Supporting patients in the Mater Public Hospital, this exciting event will take place on the weekend of 12th -14th April in the stunning surrounds of Inis Mór, just off the Galway coast.
The Half Marathon is a unique opportunity to run, jog or walk in the spectacular and scenic surroundings of Inis Mór and to soak up the atmosphere, ceol and culture that the island has to offer. This unique event is raising vital funds for the Mater Hospital Foundation, with proceeds going to support vital new equipment that has the power to save lives.
Each week in Ireland, one person under the age of 35 passes away from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndromes (SADS). Tragically, many are preventable with earlier detection. Funds raised through this year’s Aer Arann Island’s Half Marathon will go towards new state of-the-art genetic testing equipment to help diagnose serious hidden heart conditions.
By taking part, you will be helping us move one step closer to fund this vital equipment, ensuring families get the care and treatment they need ahead of preventable tragedies. There really is no greater gift than that.
The Mater Hospital Foundation is delighted to work with the Marathon Committee for a second year to raise funds for patients in the Mater Hospital. In 2023, the Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon raised in excess of €105,000 to transform and improve patient care in the Mater, which provides expert, specialist treatment to more than 420,000 patients and their families from across Ireland each year.
Commenting on this year’s event, Mary Moorhead, Chief Executive of the Mater Hospital Foundation said, “We are delighted to be once again working with the Aer Arann Island’s Half Marathon Committee and heading back to Inis Mór in April for this truly one-of-a-kind event. We are immensely grateful to the Committee, volunteers and participants who have already had such a huge impact on our patients’ lives. Our sincere appreciation must also lie with Aer Arann for their long-standing support of this event and for helping to make it possible every spring.”
She added, “Whether you’re a walker, jogger or runner, we hope that you’ll join us for this truly unforgettable experience. Your support has the power to change patients’ lives.”
Peter Mc Kenna, Managing Director, Aer Arann Islands said, “This year, Aer Arann Islands is delighted to work with the Mater Hospital Foundation and the Inis Mór community to create another unforgettable and enjoyable experience whilst, at the same time, raising much needed funds to purchase vital equipment for the Mater Hospital. The entire route passes through magnificent coastline scenery with world famous views of wide bays and sandy beaches. So, whether you run, walk, or jog, the Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon is a unique and memorable experience for all involved. Thank you for your participation for this great cause and we look forward to flying you there.”
You can learn more and download registration forms by visiting www.materfoundation.ie, alternatively contact the Mater Hospital Foundation’s Community and Events Specialist Angela McNulty at amcnulty@materfoundation.ie, visit www.materfoundation.ie or call the Mater Hospital Foundation on 01 830 3482.
Ag rith, ag siúl nó ag jagáil, is ócáid fíor speisialta é an Leath-Mharatón Aer Arann Islands, Inis Mór, 12 -14ú Aibreán. Bigí linn!