County Limerick family still in the running for Ireland’s Fittest Family

THE Lawlor family from Shanagolden will feature yet again on Ireland’s Fittest Family this Sunday evening. 

And their supporters around the county and city, and further afield will be cheering them on, hoping they make the cut again when the programme is aired on RTE 1 at 6.30pm.

Having made it to the first selection of 20 families, the Lawlors quickly showed their mettle by securing an automatic place in the coaches’ selection when they emerged in second place.

“It was fantastic to get through onto one of  Donnacha O’Callaghan’s teams,” said Dympna who with her sons Jonah, Darren and Matthew make up the Lawlors. “We said all we do to do is come fourth. We held fourth position from the start and slowly got into second position.”

Now, this Sunday, they have to battle it out against coach Donnacha O’Callaghan’s two other teams to get a place in the next round.

We will see them undertake challenges such as pulling a large tractor, climbing 12 foot high ramps  and rolling giant tractor wheels along a prescribed route. Their ultimate hope will be to emerge in first place and go through and not have to face the eliminator round. But as long as they make it to the next stage, they will be happy.

“It is no joke,” Dympna revealed. “You only get to see the event minutes before you have to take it on. There is not much time to discuss tactics.”

But she and her boys have been enjoying the experience and have particularly enjoyed working with Munster and Ireland rugby legend Donnacha.

“He is a character. He is so funny. When he is with the boy, they are always singing and joking,” Dympna said. “He leaves us be ourselves and doesn’t put pressure on but he is great to give advice and encourages you to do it.”

The reaction from family, friends, neighbours and workmates and from the general public has been hugely positive. “It has been amazing,” Dympna said.

“People are saying they cannot wait for the next episode.”

That next episode takes place this Sunday on RTE 1 at 6.30pm.