A group of 20 Irish soldiers who are currently based in Syria – including three from County Roscommon – recently ran the Jerusalem Marathon (in camp) in aid of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice.
The soldiers, members of the 60th Infantry Group, are serving with the UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force).
While the event itself was called off due to Covid-19 restrictions, the soldiers ran the gruelling marathon in their camp. They had engaged in many months’ of intensive training in testing conditions.
The three Roscommon soldiers who undertook and completed the project are Pte. Dylan Colgan (Clann na nGael), Pte. Gary Reynolds (St. Joseph’s), Cpl. Niall Kilcrann (Kilglass Gaels). Also in photograph is Lt. Colonel Ollie Dwyer (Oran).
The soldiers chose the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice because it is a charity which is close to the hearts of many of them (and their families).
They have received great support in terms of donations (details of the sum raised will be published at a later date).
The soldiers wish to thank everyone who has supported this fundraiser to date. They said: “We have been humbled by the support, which as everybody knows is for such a worthy cause. The Mayo/Roscommon Hospice does fantastic work.
“We hope that by running this marathon we are in some small way helping those who are facing far more difficult challenges in their daily lives”.
* People can continue to donate up to the end of May. (See details on www.hospice.ie).
Well done to all the lads.
