Drogheda was the place to be recently when the Louth Sanctuary Runners came together to walk and run along the beautiful Boyne. A large group of Sanctuary Runners from Ardee, Dundalk, East Meath met in Drogheda, representing 14 nationalities including many local Irish people. Even the weather cooperated with a dry day and slight breeze. Some ran, some walked, the youngest was 4 and the oldest 81, each and every one, received a warm Louth welcome.
Sanctuary Runners is a solidarity through sport movement, which brings the international community, ethnic minorities, long term international and Irish residents together, to walk, run and chat.
Bláthnaid Quinn, one of the Drogheda organisers said.‘It was just a wonderful morning offriendship, fun and positivity. It was noisy, lots of chatter and laughter. Everyone felt good after exercising and connecting, especially outside.’
She added “Many brought snacks and treats for our ‘picnic’ afterwards, with people continuing to connect and enjoy each other’s company longer than expected. Already we can see some new friendships forming, it was lovely to witness.”
Maria, originally from Venezuela but living in Ireland for over a year, who walks with the Dundalk Sanctuary Runners group was emotional, “The warmth and sympathy the group gave me after the Venezuela earthquakes.It touched my heart. I had to come because I knew being here would lift my spirits. I feel so welcome.”
Amina Moustafa, Senior Officer, Louth Local Development Company, a Sanctuary Runner with the Ardee Sanctuary Group commented “It was a great morning, lots of laughter and warmth.There was a great mix of people, ages, backgrounds, gender from all over Louth.I am delighted to be part of it.”
The event also coincided with the Pride parade in Dublin and some Sanctuary Runners travelled together to attend.
‘It is gratifying to see such a turnout for this event.” said Ryan McShane, Senior Sports Officer, Louth Sports Partnership, “We look forward to seeing many more gatherings in the future. It shows that sport is a great way to welcome and bring people into the community. Louth Local Sports Partnership are delighted to support the Sanctuary runners groups in the county.”
Drogheda, Ardee and Dundalk groups meet twice a month, everyone is welcome. There is no obligation to attend every event just drop in. Each participant gets a free iconic blue Sanctuary Runners t-shirt. Everyone will always, always be welcome.
The Drogheda group meets every other Saturday contact Michelle@sanctuaryrunners.ie
