PARKRUNS may be a recent phenomenon, but for the past three decades one Belfast fun run has been raising vital funds to give people in developing countries a better quality of life.
The Belfast One World Run, which this year takes place on May 22, supports Christian Aid Ireland, Trocaire, Concern Worldwide and Oxfam Ireland; in 30 years it has raised £187,500 for the development and aid projects these charities work on across the world.
The event was established by a small local group at the height of the Troubles in 1987, following the massive success of the Bob Geldof-inspired Run for the World the previous year which raised funds for famine relief in Ethiopia.
The Belfast One World Run was deliberately organised so that it would attract cross-community support, with the money raised being distributed to four of the main charities engaged in relief and development work in poorer countries. SInce its inception it has helped thousands set up sustainable livelihood projects.
The committee hopes to set a new "personal best" this year, as Karishma Kusurkar explained: "If all goes well this year we will break the £200,000 barrier – that's £50,000 distributed to each of the four charities since the run was founded back in the 1980s."
People of all ages and abilities are invited to compete in Belfast's Ormeau Park. For the serious athletes, there is an officially measured 10k with chip timing, but for those who want to put the fun into fundraising there are also 5k and 2k runs, as well as the family-friendly 2k Lady Anne Walk.
Claire Hanna MLA, who served on the Belfast One World Run committee while working for Concern Worldwide, is looking forward to getting her running shoes on once again.
"I'm delighted to have been able to support the run over the years, both as a committee member and as a participant. I haven't ever completed the full 10k run – maybe this year – but I should certainly be able to take part in the 2k family walk, even with the toddlers in tow."
:: Applications forms can be downloaded from http://belfastoneworldrun.com.
