‘Team Deirdre’ do the business
There were tears of joy and relief, tinged with some sadness, for members of the extended family and friends of the late Deirdre Darcy-Hogan as they gathered soon after the Dublin Marathon on Sunday afternoon last.
Their team of five runners, wearing tee shirts bearing the words “Remembering Deirdre”, had just crossed the line. They were running in honour and in memory of the late Deirdre, from Aglish and a former member of An Garda Síochána stationed in Nenagh, who died a year ago after a brave battle against cancer.
The plan was hatched almost 12 months ago when brother-in-law Eamon, a veteran of 15 Dublin Marathons, mentioned running the 2023 edition in memory of his late sister-in-law.
Two of Eamon's brothers, their cousin Tom and former work colleague, Regina, decided they would like to join him.
On Sunday their months of training paid off when they crossed the line together to an emotional reception from a large gathering of supporters.
Speaking just after the event Deirdre's brother-in-law Eamonn said: “Running in memory of ‘Team Deirdre’, Regina, Tom, Vinnie, Brian and myself met up near the start at 8.45am.There was plenty of nervous excitement ahead of the marathon.
“We had always intended to start, and hopefully finish together, so it was a great relief when all five of us lined up in Fitzwilliam Square before the starter gun went off.
“The Dublin Marathon is called the ‘friendly marathon’ and that was definitely the case.
“Special mention to all our family members and friends that were in place throughout the course to provide hydration stations and support.
“We all went through difficult physical and mental periods during the race, but this was when ‘Team Deirdre’ demonstrated its true colours as we counted down the miles.”
HUGELY PROUD
Eamonn added:“We were all hugely proud to be able to join hands and finish the 42.2k together.
“We enjoyed a lovely few minutes afterwards when meeting our families and friends after the finish line.
hugs galore!
“There were plenty of photos, hugs and tears before heading for a little recovery in advance of a well-deserved dinner and a few beers. Roll on 2024."
Speaking just after the event Eamon's brother Brian said: “Despite the rain, the support throughout the course was unbelievable for ‘Team Deirdre’, but particularly our own local support, strategically dotted around the route, was excellent.
“Running as a group added hugely to the occasion, and crossing the finish line together was a memorable experience.”
Funds raised by ‘Team Dierdre’ will go to North Tipperary Hospice and the Irish Cancer Society.