Way to 5k in Killykeen
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The runners set off from the start line.Image 2 of 5
Some of the runners were participating in their first 5k.Image 3 of 5
One of the groups involved in the programme, organised by Cavan Sports Partnership.Image 4 of 5
Another group of runners before the race.Image 5 of 5
A happy and healthy group of runners at the start line in Killykeen.Killykeen Forest Park was the venue for a 5k walk/run last Sunday on a crisp, bright and dry winter's morning - the culmination of six-week training programme by participants in a number of community groups across the county.
‘Your Way to 5k’ is an annual walk/jog programme hosted by Cavan Sports Partnership in communities and led by local trained coaches.
This year nine communities took part - Belturbet, Bailieborough, Cavan Town (Terry Coyle), Denn, Gowna, Kilnaleck, Lacken, Mullahoran and Mullagh - with over 250 participants in the course.
The six-week programme concluded last Sunday with a mass participation event ‘The Healthy Cavan 5k’ in Killykeen. This was a closed event for all 'Your Way to 5k' participants who receive a T-shirt and medal to reward them on their completion of their 5k.
This event is in its fourth year and going from strength to strength. On Sunday 130 runners took part in the Healthy Cavan 5k, which included participants from the nine community groups and Men on The Move participants from Cavan Town, Mullagh and Belturbet and Denn who held their own inclusive event on their GAA grounds with over 40 participants.
Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Cllr Clifford Kelly, said: “It’s wonderful to see so many people out and staying active here in Killykeen Forest Park. Congratulations to all the coaches and participants who have worked hard to prepare for today. Hopefully this great event will continue to go from strength to strength.”
Healthy Cavan Coordinator, Sinéad Tormey, added: “It’s great to see so many people taking part and enjoying the park at this annual event in a relaxed friendly atmosphere in beautiful surroundings. All participants received t-shirts and medals as they crossed the finish line. Well done to all who took part and also to all the coaches who trained them up for the event.”