LauraLynn's first-ever 5 & 10K took place on Saturday, 10th October, at Leopardstown Racecourse, bringing together around 1K participants in support of LauraLynn, Ireland's Children's Hospice. The event sold out, and donations are still coming in, with over €127,000 raised to date.
Bright skies and a cool autumn morning set the scene at Leopardstown, as participants of all fitness levels walked, jogged and ran the 5K and 10K routes. Friends, families and supporters were there to cheer them on, and everyone who crossed the finish line was presented with a medal, making it a memorable, family-friendly day out.
LauraLynn Ambassador Ray D'Arcy was MC for the day. He introduced the event and led the participants through a warm-up, with live music from a DJ keeping spirits high throughout the morning.
"It's spectacular. It's very special. Every time there's an event for LauraLynn, there's something very special in the air," said Ray. "What a perfect morning. The sun is shining, and it's just the right temperature, a little bit crisp, so it's perfect running temperature."
Ray was also cheering on family members, as his wife and daughter were among those taking part.
RTÉ star Doireann Garrihy took on the 10K, along with her sister, influencer Ailbhe Garrihy.. "I'm a bit nervous, but very excited and so thrilled to be here," said Doireann. "I just hope everyone gets behind LauraLynn and donates whatever you can, because it's an incredible cause."
The current Rose of Tralee, Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh, also attended and completed the 5K. "It was tough, but the atmosphere here really pushes you along, and the people you meet along the way. Everyone's doing it for the right cause, and the funds are all going towards a children's hospice that is close to so many of us," she said. "For the first year, they've knocked it out of the park, and I can't wait to see this getting bigger and better every year."
LauraLynn would like to thank everyone who took part, donated, volunteered and cheered on the day, and all those whose support is helping provide specialist care to children with life-limiting conditions and their families across Ireland.
