Posted online: Feb 28th, 2008

By Dermot Keys
dermot@letterkennypost.com

The 12th North West Charity 10k was launched this week in the Mount Errigal Hotel and will take place on May 4.
It is one of the highlights of the Letterkenny calendar and always attracts plenty of support, with 1300 people taking part last year. The charities to benefit this year are the Donegal branch of the Autism Family Support, the Donegal Mountain Rescue Team and the Donegal branch of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
It is a major fundraiser for local charities, with over €360,000 raised for 21 local organisations to date. Last year, the charities got €22,000 each which was an increase of €6000 and it is hoped that this year can match or surpass that impressive collection.
Speaking at the launch, Grace Boyle praised the support that the people of the area gave to the event and thanked the likes of the Gardai, the Community Centre, the Civil Defence, the sponsors and everyone who made the 10k possible.
“This is what the 10k does,” she said.
“People come out and support us and give us as much help as they can.”
Representatives from the charities gave a brief outline of what they do and why the money they received would be a vital help.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association support people with muscular dystrophy, which is a muscle wasting condition, and also offer respite for their families. They also offer financial support for equipment and travel.
The Autism Family support provides invaluable support for the parents and families of people with autism and promotes awareness of autism. At the meeting, Kate McCafferty spoke of the challenges that faced the families and pointed out that six children had been diagnosed with autism in Donegal in January alone.
Donegal Mountain Rescue is on call 365 days of the year for anyone in danger. In addition to helping people on the hills of Donegal, they have also been involved in recent low level searches around Letterkenny.
As well as raising money for good causes, the 10k road race and walk provides great enjoyment for all who take part. It caters for those who run seriously as well as those who just want to enjoy a day’s exercise and a bit of craic.
For more information, see www.northwest10k.com