The Third Annual dlr Community 5K a Huge Success

 A great afternoon of fun, activity and inclusion was had by all at the recent dlr Community 5K 2011. Once again held in Kilbogget Park on a beautiful sunny day, over 420 participants of all ages and fitness levels completed the five-kilometre course. Kicking of Social Inclusion Week in the County, this unique event was a great opportunity for everyone to get out, be active and make new friends.

 An Cathoirleach Cllr. John Bailey sent them on their way making sure everyone got an encouraging cheer as they passed. Everyone who completed the five-kilometre route was a winner with some groups using the event to fundraise for their chosen charity. Each participant received a t-shirt, medal and goodie bag on completing the course.

Shane McArdle, Coordinator with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Sports Partnership, commented 'our key aim was to have an event that was open to everyone, from wheelchair users to joggers, to complete the course and have fun. We are delighted to have had such a large number of participants and range of abilities take part and enjoy the family atmosphere.'

The dlr Community 5K was organised by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Sports Partnership in conjunction with a number of local and statutory groups to provide a fun inclusive event for everyone. These groups included; staff in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the HSE's Health Promotion Unit, dlr Leisure Services Ltd, Cabinteely Athletics Club and Sallynoggin College of Further Education.

Initial funding for the event came from the Office of the Minister for Integration and the HSE Health Promotion Unit, but a number of local sponsors also came on board to make the event such a success. In particular dlr Leisure Services who sponsored the t-shirts and a number of local businesses that gave items for the goody bags.

A huge thank you has to go to Cabinteely FC for the use of their clubhouse, the Parks Department in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council for assistance, the Community Gardai for their help on the day and of course the 35 volunteers who ensured that everyone was safe and had fun. With their help (and the appearance of the sun) the dlr Community 5K continues to become bigger every year.