Catherine Connolly opens Irish event saying organisers 'have created something truly special'

Over 800 people attended the third Global Solidarity Run, organised by Sanctuary Runners, in Dublin on Sunday 11 October joining runners and walkers all over Ireland in a solidarity 5k.

People from all nationalities including people who have been forcibly displaced and people seeking protection in Ireland, and many local Irish people came along to a vibrant celebration of friendship and solidarity.

The Sport Ireland Campus in Dublin was a sea of blue with people meeting other Sanctuary Runners groups for the first time and reconnecting with old friends.

Many ran and walked together on the 5k course, and there was singing, dancing and a strong feeling of positivity and pride as everyone enjoyed the gorgeous sunshine.

Catherine Connolly, an avid runner who is also a Patron of Sanctuary Runners, opened the event paying tribute to Sanctuary Runners: 'To all of the dedicated volunteers in the over 43 branches around Ireland, who exemplify your ethos of solidarity through sport.

“Through your vision and your commitment to connecting people from different backgrounds and nationalities, you have provided a space where everyone is welcome, and where migrants and people seeking international protection can integrate into the local community.

“In identifying this gap, and in bringing people together in friendship and respect, you have created something truly special.”

Sanctuary Runners CEO, Anna Pringle, expressed her gratitude to President Connolly and all the partners whose support and commitment helped make the Global Solidarity Run such a resounding success.

She reminded the attendees at the event, “We are here today as part of the Global Solidarity Run, which is taking place this weekend. In many countries around the world, people just like us are wearing their blue t-shirts and running or walking together to show solidarity with people who have been displaced and those living in extreme poverty.

“It is more important than ever that we stand in solidarity with people who are less fortunate.”

Our sister site Louth Live interviewed some of the participants on the day.

Chigozie, originally from Nigeria, who runs with the Dundalk Sanctuary Runners group commented: ‘This event has been just fantastic. The singing, dancing and the friendship from everyone was wonderful. I've met people from other groups. It feels like one big family.’

Bláthnaid Quinn, an organiser from Drogheda Sanctuary Runners was thrilled to be there, ‘We had such a wonderful day. Once again it was so much fun having all the Louth groups together on the bus to attend such a positive occasion. The atmosphere at the Global Solidarity Run was joyful and happy.

“It was moving to see so many people here from all corners of Ireland and beyond, coming together in solidarity for our friends and neighbours from many nationalities. We won't forget it.'

Amina Moustafa, Senior Officer, Louth Local Development Company, with the Ardee Sanctuary Runners Group was delighted, ‘It was a memorable day. We had so much fun. Meeting the President of Ireland is a moment I will always cherish.’

Rachel Finegan, Healthy Ireland County Co-ordinator Louth, said: ‘Regular walking and running not only support physical and mental health, but also create opportunities for people to connect, build friendships and feel part of their community.

“The Sanctuary Runners are a wonderful example of inclusion and solidarity in action, and their participation in the Global Solidarity Run highlighted the positive role they play in fostering welcoming and connected communities across County Louth. We are pleased to support their ongoing work.”

Ryan McShane, Senior Sports Officer, Louth Sports Partnership added, ‘Louth Local Sports Partnership is delighted to continue supporting Sanctuary Runners across the county.

“It has been fantastic to see the group take part in the recent Global Solidarity Run, bringing people from diverse backgrounds together through sport and community.

“The continued growth of Sanctuary Runners in the county is a testament to the welcoming and inclusive environment they have created, going from strength to strength and making a positive impact on communities across Louth.”

Drogheda, Ardee and Dundalk groups meet twice a month, everyone is welcome. Sanctuary Runners urge people to drop in whenever they can, and get a free iconic blue Sanctuary Runners t-shirt - “You will always, always be welcome.”