Call goes out to support Kildare cancer fundraising event
A day of fitness, fun and fundraising takes place on Saturday July 25 at Poplar Square, Naas
The organisers of a charity fundraiser are appealing for support for an unusual 12 hours event to raise money for a cancer support service.
A day of fitness, fun and fundraising, hosted by Naas-based Mick Mulcahy Fitness will take place on Saturday July 25.
The 12-hour fitathon is scheduled for Poplar Square, Naas, from 9.00am to 9.00pm.
Organised by Mick Mulcahy and his wife, Maeve Aldridge, the event is being held in memory of their dear friend Gwendolyn Marks, a Louth native who made her home in Naas with her young family.
Gwendolyn sadly passed away last September following a courageous battle with cancer.
Every euro raised on the day will go directly to ARC Cancer Support Centres, which provides professional information, peer support, counselling, complementary therapies, weekly wellbeing and resilience-building classes, workshops, courses, talks and support groups for people affected by cancer and their loved ones.
While the cause is deeply personal, Mick and Maeve are determined to make the day a celebration of community spirit, bringing people of all ages together for an unforgettable event.
Participants can choose from 12 consecutive hours of fitness classes, including circuit training, kettlebell workouts, Zumba and FitSteps, with sessions suitable for a range of fitness levels. Beyond the workouts, the event promises something for everyone, with face painting, balloon twisting, plenty of craic agus ceol, and a special performance from the Newbridge Gospel Choir, ensuring a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day.
Visitors will also have the chance to support the fundraising efforts through a raffle featuring an array of fantastic prizes, generously donated by local businesses.
Mr Mulcahy, a former member of Defence Forces' Army Ranger Wing, is no stranger to fundraising. In August 2021, he was part of Team Song Birdies, helping to raise a phenomenal amount for charity while completing an incredible 153.6 kilometres over 24 hours, running continuous laps of Naas.
Mick said: "This day is about remembering an incredible friend while supporting a charity that helps so many people facing cancer. We want everyone to come along, whether you're taking part in a fitness class, bringing the family for the entertainment, or simply showing your support. Together we can make a real difference in Gwendolyn's memory."
The organisers are encouraging local businesses, community groups, families and fitness enthusiasts alike to get involved and help make the event a huge success.
“Their generosity reflects the incredible community spirit that exists in Naas and will help ensure the event is a fitting tribute to Gwendolyn while raising much-needed funds for ARC Cancer Support Centres,” added Mick.
Mick and Maeve would also like to thank the many local businesses, volunteers and supporters who have already come on board through sponsorship, raffle prize donations and practical assistance. They also extend their heartfelt thanks to Cllr Evie Sammon, local gardai and Kildare County Council for their support.
The organisers would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Cllr Evie Sammon, local gardai and Kildare County Council for their support
For more information, to book your place, or to support the fundraiser, contact Mick on 087 260 6944 or Maeve on 086 387 1144. You can also follow Mick Mulcahy Fitness on Facebook and Instagram for event updates, class schedules and raffle announcements.
Everyone is welcome to attend and support the event.