Plenty of sporting events this festive season!
There are a number of fun runs and walks and charity fundraisers in this region over the Christmas, while there are two GOAL Miles taking place locally.
Derek Daly Memorial Walk/Run - Garrycastle GAA
Get rid of the Christmas excesses on St Stephen's Day by participating in the Derek Daly 5 km Walk/Run. The Beirne family from Mohill, Co. Leitrim, recent winners of Ireland's fittest family competition, will lead off the walk/run on the day. Their involvement is a real boost to this festive event. This has been a very successful annual event organised by Garrycastle GAA. Registration will be from 11am; the walkers will leave at 11.30 and the runners at 12 noon all from the club house.
Fun Run/Walk - Kilbeggan
Dermot Smith of Kilbeggan Shamrocks is holding his annual 6k fun run/walk in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin on St Stephen's Day. Starting time is 12 noon, with registration taking place in the Kilbeggan Parish Centre. You can also register online or make a donation by logging onto www.myrunresults.com - open to all ages, the event is a great way to work off the festive feastings.
GOAL Miles
There are two local GOAL Miles taking place over the festive period.
One will be held at Castledaly GAA Grounds on St Stephen’s Day from 12-2pm, while another will be held at Padraig Pearses GAA grounds, Creagh, Ballinasloe, on Christmas Day, from 11.30am to 1.30pm.
The Miles will once again offer people an opportunity to exercise, have fun and help raise money and awareness for some of GOAL’s most vital programmes in the developing world.
There is also a GOAL Mile in Mullingar. To find a GOAL Mile near you, visit www.goalglobal.org.
Midland Warriors RFC (Moate) - St Stephen's Day
A friendly rugby match between current Warriors players, past Warriors players and any players who are looking for a run around to dust off the cobwebs after their Christmas dinner! The game will get underway at 1pm and there will be hot mulled wine and refreshments available for all on the sidelines. All support is welcome and very appreciated on what is a hugely emotional occasion for all club players and supporters as Tim Ross is remembered.
Exiles Cup - Buccaneers RFC - St Stephen’s Day
The traditional and seasonal Exiles Cup match takes place at Buccaneers RFC on St Stephen’s Day when the President’s XV will take on an Exiles selection as the teams bid to capture the James Moran Exiles Perpetual Cup. The trophy and other awards will be presented post-match in The Bounty.
Charity Match - Ferbane GAA
Ferbane GAA club invites everyone to the pitch on St Stephen’s Day for a 7-a-side tournament in aid of the Jack & Jill Foundation (2pm start). This wonderful organisation does excellent work and provided great comfort to the Egan family during baby Conor’s illness and final days. Baby Conor will be remembered on the day.