Tipp Rose leads out dawn walk in Ballina-Killaloe

Under a dark yet clear sky around 4am last Saturday morning, crowds gathered in the Ballina GAA grounds, as did other Irish communities around the world to take part in the Darkness into Light walk in aid of the mental health charity, Pieta House.

Approximately 500 walkers gathered in Ballina to take part in the walk which is in its ninth year in the Ballina-Killaloe community.

This local walk is unusual as it begins in the County Tipperary town of Ballina, crosses the bridge into the town of Killaloe in County Clare, and back again, with the walk finishing where it started with tea, coffee and friendly conversation in Ballina GAA grounds.

Though the first Darkness into Light walk took place in the twin-towns nine years ago, the event continues to grow from strength to strength, with participants and funds raised increasing every year.

The walk raised €12,000 in 2023, a considerable contribution from the towns’ towards essential mental health services. The ambassador and MC for the event this year was 2024 Tipperary Rose Tara Brady from Ballina. Tara welcomed the crowds which had gathered for the walk, introduced staff of the Leisure Centre team from the Lakeside Hotel, Ballina, to lead the warm-up, and read a message of hope to the crowd before they set off on their walk from Darkness into Light.

‘YOU ARE THE LIGHT’

Tara reminded the participants that, “You are the light that will ignite hope in so many hearts. You are bringing the power of hope into many, many lives. You are a light against the dark.” When asked what Tara thought of being the ambassador for the walk in her local area she replied: “It was my absolute honour and pleasure to be the Ambassador and MC for the Darkness into Light walk this year.

“Pieta House is a cause which is very close to my own heart, and the heart of our community. My family, friends and I take part every year, so to be the Ambassador for this year’s event was a true honour.

“We have such a united and supportive community here in Ballina-Killaloe, and I think that is clear to see on a day like today. I would also like to take this opportunity to say that if you are not feeling well mentally, or are worried about someone close to you, please reach out to someone you trust and to services like Pieta House. There is hope and there is a light at the end of the tunnel for everyone.”

The Ballina-Killaloe Darkness into Light committee, along with local emergency services, clubs, community organisations and businesses gave their wholehearted support to the event, as they do every year. The event organisers and committee would like to thank all of the participants and volunteers which made the event possible, safe and enjoyable and that they hope to see you all again next year for their tenth anniversary!