Strawberry Half Marathon and The Asthma Society have joined forces to help raise funds to help asthma sufferers manage their condition. The Strawberry Half Marathon organisers launched their annual race this week in Enniscorthy and they have announced the Asthma Society of Ireland as their nominated charity. The event, based in and around Enniscorthy will feature a half marathon, 15k walk and 5m road race Sunday 24th June.
The Strawberry Half Marathon’s nomination of the Asthma Society as chosen charity for this year’s race is a very special one, honouring the memory of Enniscorthy man, Alex Robinson, who tragically died of an asthma attack 25 years ago. Alex’s mother, Anne Robinson, and the extended Robinson family have campaigned tirelessly both locally and nationally to raise funds to support the vital work of the Asthma Society and prevent similar tragedies happening to other families.
Speaking at the launch of the race, race co-director Jane Porter said ‘We had a very successful race last year and the event is going from strength to strength. This year we have decided to nominate the Asthma Society as charity partner and it takes on extra significance with the 25th Anniversary of Alex’s tragic passing. The day itself is all about having fun and doing something for a good cause and we hope to see in excess of 1000 people participating this year.’
Jane commented further saying, ‘Participants have plenty of time to get ready between now and the race. This race appeals to every level of participant from the walkers and joggers to the serious runners. We are hoping to create a big race atmosphere at what we hope is becoming a very special annual local event.
Anne Robinson also commented saying, ’I would sincerely like to thanks Graham & Jane for choosing the Asthma Society of Ireland and honouring Alex in this way. Since his death, I have been actively promoting the potential seriousness of asthma with the Asthma Society and I hope that with this kind of awareness, we can prevent similar tragedies in the future.’
Ireland has the 4th highest level of asthma worldwide and almost half a million people are affected. In Ireland 55 people attend A&E every week with an asthma attack and tragically one person dies from an asthma attack every week.
To sign up for the race, log onto www.runireland.com or www.strawberryhalfmarathon.com. To raise money for the asthma, participants need a sponsorship pack than can be obtained by contacting the Asthma Society of Ireland on 01 – 8178886 or email sponsor@asthmasociety.ie