Latest news with #ParkrunIreland
Irish Independent
12-08-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Consultant backs initiative between HSE and Parkrun on participation for those living with Dementia
Parkrun in Sligo and Leitrim are welcoming people living with Dementia, their families and carers to take part in their local runs. The HSE and Parkrun Ireland have recently launched a Dementia Friendly Parkrun Manual. The manual reflects Parkrun's ongoing commitment to removing barriers to participation and promoting physical, social, and mental wellbeing for all. Speaking about the initiative, Professor Paula Hickey, Consultant Geriatrician Sligo University Hospital said: 'I am delighted to support the Dementia Friendly Parkrun Manual. 'This is a valuable initiative to create a welcoming space for people living with dementia, their family, friends and carers. 'Maintaining an active life with social engagement is such a fundamental part of living well with dementia, this practical action can make a big difference and helps promote inclusive friendly communities.' Parkrun Ireland have been working with HSE Health and Wellbeing for many years supporting and driving engagement in physical activity. The new initiative is designed to make parkrun's across the country more welcoming and inclusive for people living with dementia. People with dementia or family members who are caring for a person with dementia may consider taking part or volunteering in their local parkrun as a good physical or social activity. Doing things with others and taking part in worthwhile activities can improve the quality of life of people living with dementia. It may also slow the development of dementia. Parkrun is a safe and friendly way to get regular activity. Whether walking, jogging or running - anyone can join in. Parkrun is a free weekly run, jog or walk for all, taking place on Saturday mornings at 9.30am. Its locations in Sligo and Leitrim are: Sligo Parkrun - Doorly Park, Cleveragh, Sligo Tubbercurry Trail Parkrun- Tubbercurry Trail, Ballina Rd, Rathscanlon, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Glenfarne Wood Parkrun- Glenfarne Wood, Moneyduff, Co. Leitrim. Ballinamore Greenway Parkrun- Ballinamore Greenway, Ballinamore, Co Leitrim. The manual is available to order free of charge from (direct link:
Irish Independent
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
See pictures from New Ross Parkrun's 10th anniversary celebrations
The popular running and walking event that takes place in JFK Park and Arboretum every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. continues to increase in members, welcoming people of all ages and fitness levels, and some furry friends too. Kicking off the birthday celebrations, Run Director, Catherine Ronan opened the event, just as she has continued to do since the inaugural event ten years ago. The volunteer-led organisation not only welcomes locals, but also has an open-door policy for anyone wishing to take part who may be involved with other Parkrun groups, in both Ireland and the UK. The participants were treated to cake and refreshments which awaited them at the finish line on this occasion, with credit due to all volunteers who were busy on Friday night preparing for the birthday. Under the guidelines of Parkrun Ireland, the fantastic core group of volunteers hosted the 428th Parkrun in New Ross, which attracted 20 first timers on the day. John McGrath was successful in keeping up appearances as he crossed the finish line as the First Male, which he also pioneered in the first event ten years ago. Meanwhile, Emma Hannon crossed the line last Saturday as First Female. 'The core group is the heart of the event,' said Dale Kirwan, Parkrun ambassador, who marked his 200th Parkrun in recent weeks. 'Families have so much going on during the week, yet they continue to deliver and commit to hosting the event each Saturday,' he said. 'We welcome everyone to volunteer and participate in some way, it doesn't have to be running. We would like to thank everyone for the last 10 years and for helping to make the event the success that it is. We are looking forward to the next 10,' he concluded.
