Rosscarbery run gathering steam

LISHEENS House and Owenahincha Bay Water Safety Association, are to benefit from this year’s Rosscarbery Steam Engine 5km fun run at 5pm on Saturday, October 7th.

Year on year, the race – which was named in honour of the 400m champion runner, TJ O’Mahony, who was otherwise known as ‘the steam engine’ – has grown in popularity since it began in 2010.

The 5km run, which is organised by Rosscarbery Steam Runners AC and Rosscarbery Community Council, involves a double circuit of Rosscarbery’s beautiful lagoon. 

The fact that the race has been sponsored by local businesses means that every euro raised from the registration fees will go directly to the two local charities.

Lisheens House is a community-based suicide prevention and mental health awareness charity that offers free counselling, education and training to aid recovery and promote positive Mental Health.

The organisation is based in Bantry, but it also has a training and support centre in Skibbereen. The Lisheens House helpline is 023 888 8888.

The Owenahincha Bay Water Safety Association was formed following a tragedy that occurred on Owenahincha beach in September 2006. 

Two brave young men were lost to the sea when they went to the aid of others who survived because of their heroism. The Association has recently acquired a boat, fondly named J Dogg, a nickname of one of the heroes who lost his life in 2006. 

The fun run organisers would like to thank their sponsors, in particular O’ Reilly’s Centra, Rosscarbery who provide the water and fruit every year; Gavin Fox, Dare2B for prizes; and Jeremy Murphy Auctioneers who cover printing and insurance costs.

Registration costs €10 for adults and €5 for children aged between 12 and 16 years. For safety reasons, under 12s have to be accompanied by an adult. 

Because the event is open to runners, walkers and families it has something for everyone. There is always a good fun family atmosphere, as well as a good fast 5km for the competitive runners.

Alan O’Shea from Bantry AC currently holds the male course record, and Ronnie Barry from Bandon AC holds the female course record. 

Registration on the day is from 3.30pm at the Social Services Centre, which is located directly behind the Centra Shop at the corner of Rosscarbery Square, and that will be the venue for refreshments after the race.