“The hardest few steps are the first out the door.”
On Sunday, for the 19th year running, crowds will once again take to the grounds of the University of Limerick for the Cook Medical Women’s Mini Marathon.
The race see’s over 3,000 women run either 5K or 10K, many participating in the race to raise much needed funds for a charity of their choice.
Both races begin and end on the grounds of the University of Limerick and the event has become a firm favourite amongst women and girls throughout Limerick and the midwest.
In particular, one Limerick mom alongside her daughter have taken part in the race for many years. Roisin Cleary remembers her first time attending the marathon with her daughter, when she was only seven-years-old.
“We always do the marathon together because it’s a great time to chat and see what is going on in their lives” said Roisin.
In an era where we are glued to our phones and forever checking social media, Roisin finds that training and competing in a race alongside her daughter gives them bonding time like no other. A time where they can switch off from the world and connect.
“We leave our phones at home and it’s a nice informal chat. It’s also fantastic for your mental health, to relieve stress and let go of any pressure.” Roisin added.
In terms of finding time to exercise together, Roisin said the hardest part are the first steps “out the door”. She believes that no matter how tired she feels in the evening, once she goes out for her walk alongside her daughter she feels instantly better.
“Marathons for me also make me more inclined not to each rubbish” Roisin said, when asked about her food regime while training. “For instance, I wouldn’t have the glass of red wine while watching The Late Late if I knew I was going training the next day. I wouldn’t say I diet, but it certainly makes me more conscious of what I am eating” she added.
The Cook Medical Women’s Mini Marathon takes place this Bank Holiday Sunday, October 29 at the University of Limerick and you can read all the information on the races here.
Photo credit: Limerick Women’s Mini Marathon/Roisin Cleary
