Limerick Olympian Sarah Lavin launches the Children's Run for Fun

OLYMPIAN Sarah Lavin has helped to launch the Great Limerick Run’s Children’s Run for Fun.

The highly anticipated Children’s Run for Fun as part of the Great Limerick Run festival is set to return this year partnering with Cliona’s Foundation.

The Limerick-based charity provides financial assistance to families of children with life-limiting conditions to help with the significant non-medical costs of caring for their child while in hospital or at home. 

The official launch took place at the sports grounds of the University of Limerick, with key figures in attendance including Cllr Ursula Gavan, deputising for the Mayor of Limerick, Sliabh Wells, managing director of The Bear Group, Brendan Ring, Voluntary CEO of Cliona’s Foundation, Olympian Sarah Lavin, and Laura Ryan director of Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs at UL.

The Children’s Run for Fun which takes place on Saturday, May 3, is a cornerstone event within the broader Great Limerick Run festival.

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Each year the event attracts thousands of young runners and their families, fostering a love of fitness and participation in a fun inclusive atmosphere. 

With the support of Cliona’s Foundation, the event will not only promote physical activity but also help drive fundraising and awareness for families facing significant challenges.

Sliabh Wells, managing director at the Bear Group, said “As a community-driven event, it’s incredibly important for us to support a local charity that does such vital work for families in need. This partnership is a perfect match, as it not only encourages young runners to get involved in sport but also helps shine a light on an incredible cause.”

Brendan Ring, co-founder and Voluntary CEO of Cliona’s said, “Families are at the very heart of what we do at Cliona’s. We also recognise the importance of family fun days out, whether you are enjoying those precious years that fly by or taking part in solidarity with those who are caring for a sick child who is unable to take part themselves. There could be families participating that have received support, need our support or know a family that does, so building awareness is hugely important and having a visible across the event platforms is invaluable”, said Brendan. 

The 2025 ‘Children’s Run for Fun’, further enhances the event’s commitment to community engagement throughout Limerick as well as youth participation in sport, while also raising awareness and support for an important cause.

Registration for this year’s event is available online now.