Popular GOAL Mile returns to Mayo town on Christmas morning
The Christmas Day institution that is the Ballina GOAL Mile celebrates 22 years this year. It takes place again in Belleek Woods from 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
The GOAL Mile, supported by AIB, is held throughout December in villages, towns and cities across Ireland, and virtually around the world. The event sees tens of thousands of people run or walk a mile to raise funds for GOAL.
It is a Christmas tradition for thousands of families, especially in Ballina, which attracts huge numbers from all around the area no matter what the weather.
People return year after year to take part in the Ballina GOAL Mile. It is a great meeting place for many exiles who return home for Christmas to spend time with their families.
In 2024, Ballina GOAL Mile raised over €10,000. It meant Ballina was ranked 10th out of the 200 GOAL Miles in Ireland, and was the highest fundraising GOAL Mile outside of Dublin. That's thanks to the hard work of the local committee and all who support the event.
Funds raised support the work of GOAL, which is active in 14 different countries, helping people whose lives and livelihoods have been shattered by conflict, disease and climate change. Your support helps the poorest of the poor in Africa, Middle East, Latin America, Ukraine and Gaza.
So why not come along to Belleek Woods this Christmas Day after Santa has come and gone to build up an appetite for the Christmas dinner? You can run, walk or just stop by for a chat and enjoy beverages and sweets treats kindly donated by our local businesses. Most of all, you’ll be part of something special.
All donations on the day or online are gratefully accepted. If you need more information or sponsorship cards, contact Catherine on (087) 9736310 or Marion (086) 3644073.
In total there will be six GOAL Miles taking place across Mayo this year: Ballina (Belleek Woods) - Christmas Day at 11 a.m.; Castlebar - Christmas Day at 11.30 a.m.; Louisburgh - St. Stephen's Day at 10 a.m.; Ballinrobe - St. Stephen's Day at 11.30 a.m.; Mayo Abbey - St. Stephen's Day at 12 p.m.; Westport – Sunday, December 28, at 12 p.m.