NI Air Ambulance to benefit from four back-to-back half-marathons

Paul Humphreys, along with three others, will be taking on four half-marathons in four days next month to raise money for the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance.

Here he recalls how he became involved:

“This year I have been running for 26 years. I still enjoy it as much as I did when I started.

“Over the years I have raised money for several different charities.

“A few months ago, Paul Quinn approached me and asked if I would like to do four half-marathons in four days. I love a challenge, so I was interested.

“I have ran 20-plus half-marathons but never four back-to-back.

“When Paul said we would be raising funds for the NI Air Ambulance in memory of his late wife and uncle, I was onboard straight away.

“Paul and I have been mates for 10-plus years. We worked together up until I changed careers and left the hospitality industry for the fitness sector after finishing my sport science degree.

“On my breaks at work I would have ran most days. Paul approached me not long after we stated working together and asked about running, and I asked him to join me on my run. He was instantly hooked on running, and he loves a medal or two.

“Recently I joined Paul at Ballycastle Running Club. Two other club members will be running with us in August.

“One of these members had the lovely idea of the four half-marathons in four days – remind me to have a word with him.”

Meanwhile, a Coffee Morning held at Ballycastle Church of Ireland Parish Centre in aid of the Air Ambulance, and connected to charity four half-marathon run, has raised £2,450.

This money will be added to all other money raised at the quadrathon challenge in County Donegal.

Paul Quinn expressed his thanks to all those who supported the event in any way and who helped to make it so successful, including the CoI for the use of Ramoan Parish Centre, Gillan’s Bakery, and all sponsors and helpers on the day.