Athlone Triathlon Club 'emotional and overcome' by response to 12 hour challenge

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Athlone Triathlon Club have been left emotional after their 12 hour challenge raised over €40,000 for the Athlone Family Resource Centre and Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The event, which took place on Sunday, February 2, in Athlone Community College and the Regional Sports Centre, saw forty-three teams with over 100 participants running or cycling as part of the challenge.

Having originally set their target for €30,000, the fundraiser garnered an exceedingly impressive response with €40,156 being made in donations as of Wednesday, February 5.

"We are feeling emotional and overcome with so much pride," Athlone Triathlon Club wrote. "This is such an amazing accomplishment and every single cent raised goes towards two extremely worthy causes where the money will be used in such deserving ways.

"What a surreal feeling. This would not be possible without the support from each and every person who got involved. Whether you faced the grueling 12 hours on your bike or on your feet, or you came along to cheer or support, donated or you helped spread the word - each and every one of you made a difference, and what an effect that has had."

Athlone Triathlon Club hosted the spinning portion of the event in Athlone Community College, where a new guest instructor took to the stage every hour to encourage those participating in the arduous task. As for those running, they hit the road at Athlone Regional Sports Centre.

"We set out to create the best event possible, but even we weren’t prepared for just how extraordinary the day would turn out to be. Watching our athletes push through countless highs and lows with sheer determination was inspiring," the club said.

"This wasn’t just a physical test, it was a mental challenge, requiring resilience, motivation, and endurance to power through an incredibly long day. The emotion and pride on everyone’s faces as they finished that final hour was absolutely unforgettable. The atmosphere was electric, with friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and clubmates showing up to cheer, run a lap, and bring supplies. The sense of community was truly something special."

Athlone Triathlon Club said the response to the fundraising event was "beyond what we ever imagined", as they thanked participants and those who donated for their immeasurable impact on the two charities, Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and the Athlone Family Resource Centre.

"We thank you sincerely, for your generosity and your efforts - you made this possible. you have made a difference and a massive positive impact."