Ratoath family takes on second marathon in two weeks for Sightsavers Ireland

A Ratoath father and his three sons are preparing to take on the Dublin Marathon this Sunday, 25 October, with three members of the family hoping to raise more than €3,000 for international development charity Sightsavers Ireland.

Sean McGettigan (53) will be joined by his sons Dean (25), Callum (20) and Jack (19) as the family tackles the 42.2km course through the streets of Dublin. Sean, Dean, and Jack are taking on the challenge in aid of Sightsavers Ireland, which works to prevent avoidable blindness and promote the rights of people with disabilities in some of the world's poorest countries.

The McGettigans are no strangers to long-distance running. Sean and Dean completed the York Marathon last year, followed by the Lap of the Gap Marathon in May. Just two weeks ago, all four family members crossed the finish line at the Galway Bay Marathon as part of their preparations for Dublin.

Despite their shared enthusiasm for running, training together hasn't always been possible. Dean currently lives in York, England, but Sean, Callum, and Jack have managed to complete around five half marathons together this year. While they'll all be taking on the same course this Sunday, there are no plans to stick together for the full 26.2 miles, with each family member intending to run at their own pace.

When it comes to marathon preparation, the McGettigans have a refreshingly relaxed approach.

"Things we say before a marathon are, 'Ah, it'll be grand, just keep running,' and, of course, 'Just think of the pints at the end!'" the family joked.

For Sean, the marathon is also an opportunity to support a cause he believes is both important and urgent.

"I wanted to run for Sightsavers Ireland because I believe it's a great and urgent cause," Sean explained. "It's a privilege to be able to take on a challenge like this, and to use that opportunity to make a difference for others."

Through their fundraising efforts, Sean, Dean, and Jack hope to raise more than €3,000 to support Sightsavers Ireland's work protecting and restoring sight,

improving access to eye health services, and championing equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

Wim Desmedt, Head of Individual Giving, Fundraising and Marketing at Sightsavers Ireland, said:

“There’s something special about a family taking on a challenge together, and we’re so grateful that Sean, Dean, and Jack have chosen to run the Dublin Marathon in support of Sightsavers Ireland. Their efforts reach far beyond the finish line, raising vital funds to help protect sight and build a more inclusive world. We’ll be cheering for them and all the other runners on Sunday. Sean, Dean, and Jack, thank you for your incredible commitment and for making every mile count.”

As marathon day approaches, the McGettigans are looking forward to taking on another challenge together, each at their own pace but with plenty to celebrate at the finish line.

Members of the public can support Sean, Dean, and Jack's fundraising efforts by donating here.