LAC Masters recieve gold medals

March 2010

Letterkenny Athletic Club presented the Donegal Diabetes Federation with a cheque for 2,590 euro in Tir na Nog Bar, Letterkenny on Tuesday night. The club’s masters men’s team were also presented with their gold medals after another strong showing over the 26.2 mile distance at the end of October last year.

Speaking at the function, Letterkenny AC chairman, Gerry Davenport, said Letterkenny AC had undertaken fundraising campaigns for a number of local causes and charities in recent years, and were delighted to carry on the tradition.

Ciaran McMonagle, Letterkenny AC presenting a cheque, the proceeds of the recent Dublin City Marathon, run to Elizabeth Long, Donegal branch of the Diabetes Federation of Ireland. Included are from left Gerry Davenport, Eunan Kelly Letterkenny AC, David Long, Roy Bell and Horice Friel. Photo Conor McGonagle.

“Down the years the local community and the people of the town have always been extremely generous when it came to supporting the club and thankfully, that remains the case. We are happy to be able to assist local charities, with the Donegal Diabetes Federation being the beneficiary this time around,” the chairman added.

Donegal Diabetes Federation Chairman, Danny McDaid, who represented Ireland in two Olympics and who’s a long-time member of Letterkenny AC, thanked the local club for their help and assistance.

“We got great exposure in the local press when we launched the fundraising campaign back in September and great credit most go to those who played their part. All money raised will be spent locally and there are plans to invest in new research. The money is great to get, while the exposure is also extremely important,” Danny said.

Danny heaped great praise on Ciaran McMonagle who completed his first marathon in Dublin.

“Ciaran decided to take up running to lose a bit of weight last year. He ended up shedding six and a half stone and recording a time of three hours and 29 minutes which is a great achievement. Ciaran also collected over 1,000 euro for the cause,” Danny explained.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Martin Gormley said himself and Pauric McKinney were delighted to see Paul Toner joining them in the veteran ranks and boosting the team.

“A lot of work goes on behind the scenes. Teresa McDaid prepares the schedules and we have a large support team with us on the day of the race,” Martin said.

“I don’t think there’s a town in Ireland that has so many people out running than Letterkenny. We at Letterkenny AC are keen to promote sport and exercise and to help people fulfil their potential,” Martin added.