Published: Wednesday, 11th November, 2009 4:44pm

Dawn Run on Tara raises €13,000

by John Donohoe

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The Dawn Run is a unique charity event held annually on the Hill of Tara on the weekend of the summer solstice, when runners and walkers of all abilities and levels of fitness cover a four kilometre cross-country circuit of Tara.

Its name explains why it's unique - the action commences at 4am, adding to the sense of achievement and craic for all present. When the exercise is out of the way, everyone relaxes over a cup of tea and a dawn barbecue.

The event is organised by James Gibbons and Andrew Reilly with the help of their friends and families. This year there was extra special involvement from Shay and Catherina Sheridan, who hold the beneficiary of the run, Crumlin Children's Hospital, very close to their hearts. Following another very successful Dawn Run this year with over 300 taking part, a presentation of €13,000 took place on the Hill of Tara last week. Shay and Amy Sheridan presented the cheque to Johan Fox from Crumlin Children's Hospital.

The organisers have said a big thank you to all the sponsors of the event, including Charlie Walsh, butcher; Pat the Baker, Barry Gillen of Londis, McCormack Farms and Powerade, as well as the OPW for their assistance and co-operation on the morning of the run. The barbecue would not happen without the exceptional team of Willie Rogan, Claire Rogan, Mary McNulty, John Wallace and Dean Robert Jones.

To keep up to date with plans for the run for next year, log onto www.dawnrun.ie