Sunday 22nd April saw the first ever event organised by the newly formed O.R.N.E. Community Partnership, (Ophir RFC and Naomh Eanna/St Endas GAC) in the form of the community fun run.
The event was billed as a fun run from Ophir RFC to St Endas GAC, and that was exactly what it was with around 160 participants of all ages from young babies in buggies right up to their grand parents. The first runners finishing the run which was approximately 2.5 miles in just under 20 minutes and the more leisured participants which included families with their children finished the run/walk in around the 1 hour mark.
Before the run kicked off there were lots of family activities and entertainment which were enjoyed by everyone. Luckily the early morning rain eased off for the duration of the event which allowed the kids to enjoy the trampolines and inflatable assault course. One of the main attractions on the day was a petting zoo which had a range of animals including a baby goat and chicks which proved a hit with the children. Also at Ophir RFC there was arts and crafts and face painting which the kids thoroughly enjoyed.
Once the runners had finished at St Enda’s there was a bbq and a disco for the children which was a great round off to a very enjoyable day. A big thanks goes to the North Belfast Harriers for marshalling the event, Alderman Billy Webb for starting the race, the organising committee from Ophir RFC and Naomh Eanna CLG and also to everyone who attended on the day. The event was a great success and both Clubs are already looking forward to next years event.
The project was funded by the International Fund for Ireland and managed by the NI RDC.
