2022 Colm Horkan Memorial Run launched in partnership with Big Red Barn

IN memory of late friend and clubmate, Colm Horkan, East Mayo Athletics Club and Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club have launched the 2022 Colm Horkan Memorial Run.

The run, which takes place on February 12, will be a mix of a physical run in Charlestown and a virtual run for people unable to make it on the day. As in 2021 you can choose to run, jog, cycle or walk 5km, 10km or do a half-marathon and participants can take part anywhere in the world at your own pace.

Entry is now open and you can register to take part either virtually or physically by visiting https://www.popupraces.ie/race/colm-horkan-memorial-run-2022/.

Entrants will receive a custom-made medal in memory of Colm. Custom designed t-shirts are also available to purchase with a choice of either a technical fit or cotton option. This year there will also be the option to purchase a custom designed hoodie as an optional extra with an embroidered crest.

Local business Big Red Barn have come on board as official sponsor of the 2022 event. Established in 2014, Big Red Barn design and manufacture A rated factory built homes that meet all planning and building regulations. They provide a complete package, from design to submitting for planning, and deliver homes in turn key condition faster and cheaper than conventional builds.

Commenting at the run launch, Gemma Higgins, East Mayo Athletics Club, said: “The support for last year's virtual run was overwhelming with over 4,000 people from all around the world taking part. We feel that this year's event will be even more special as we look forward to hosting a physical race and welcoming racegoers to Charlestown.

“We're delighted that this has become an annual event and are extremely grateful to our committee, our members and our many volunteers for their continued hard work and support for this event.”

Speaking on behalf of Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club, Liam Breheny, chairman, commented: “We are delighted once again to be partnering with East Mayo Athletics Club in launching the 2022 Colm Horkan Memorial Run.

“People from all around the world lent their support to #RunForColm in 2021, an initiative which was first given life by the 62nd infantry in Syria. We are particularly pleased this year to welcome the support of local business The Big Red Barn and we thank them sincerely for their support.

“We look forward to a great event in Charlestown in February and to welcoming virtual entries from those who can’t make it on the day.”

Donal Byrne, managing director of The Big Red Barn, added: “We are delighted to support this wonderful event in memory of this great man. It was a huge success last year and we wish it every success this year.”

Funds raised will go towards the development of a new all-weather floodlit pitch, to be named the Colm Horkan Memorial Pitch. The project will also involve the construction of new community walkways and will be a fitting legacy for the great man and a facility for the community to enjoy for generations to come.

For more information, visit https://colmhorkanmemorialpitch.com/.