Fundraising has evolved into a competitive business and to have the edge, you need to come up with something that stands out from the crowd.

Standing out from the crowd wasn't easy at last Saturday's Mud Run in Gortnahown, as to a man and woman, competitors emerged from this daunting ordeal, dirty and drenched. Despite some obvious down sides, this was a challenge that had mass appeal with over 1,000 turning up to have a go at either the 6km or 12km route. A variety of obstacles, punishing hills and slippery slopes all combined to test participants. Despite nearly a 100% completion rate, there was no doubting the sense of relief that followed completion of the semi aquatic course.

TEAM SPIRIT

The gender breakdown was about 50/50 with the bulk of runners under 35. Teams of 3+ proved popular and the support of team mates proved invaluable when the going, inevitably, got tough. There was little in the way of hold ups and groups of runners were released at regular intervals. The showering operation afterwards was quick and efficient and once people were able to get some fresh clothes on, their demeanor picked up considerably.

The Mud Run is a follow-on from the successful barn dances, previously held at this venue. Billy O'Donovan and Mitchelstown Lions Club are credited as being the brains behind the operation, however, a whole host of voluntary groups, individuals and businesses rallied around to pull off this maiden Mud Run. Proceeds from the event went to the Mercy Hospital's cancer appeal fund and no one could argue with the merits of the chosen charity.

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