GAA stars urge fans to #StepUp4Mencap in 2017 Belfast marathon
February 20, 2017
Pictured are Ulster GAA stars Ryan McHugh (left) and Connor McAliskey. The two are calling on GAA fans to sign up for the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon and fundraise in aid of Mencap. To register for the team relay, the full marathon or any of the associated events, visit mencapbigstepforward.org.
Ahead of the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon, two Ulster GAA stars are lending their support to Mencap and calling on fans to support the official charity of the event.
Ryan McHugh of Donegal and Connor McAliskey of Tyrone are asking fans to sign up and raise money for Mencap ahead of Marathon Day Monday 1st May 2017.
Connor McAliskey, the Tyrone attacker currently sidelined with a cruciate injury, said: "It's an honour to be supporting Mencap ahead of the marathon this year.
"I have two cousins with a learning disability, so I am very familiar with Mencap's work and how crucial it is for families like mine.
"I encourage all GAA fans to get a relay team together or tackle the full marathon in aid of Mencap. Hopefully we can help the charity smash its goal of 2,000 participants this year!"
2016 All-Star Ryan McHugh, who also plays for Ulster University, added: "As a GAA footballer, I am always happy to shout about a deserving charity and Mencap is no different.
"The charity's mission is all about giving people with a learning disability a voice and making sure everyone is included.
"These goals mirror the values of the GAA as we also strive to ensure young people with a learning disability play a role in our organisation and that they are a part of our teams. I'm calling on all GAA fans to sign up in aid of this important charity."
Margaret Kelly, Director of Mencap Northern Ireland, said:"We couldn't be happier that Connor and Ryan are encouraging GAA supporters to 'Step Up for Mencap'.
"We urgently need funds to support a number of critical initiatives, including our upcoming family support programme, which will provide guidance to families with a child diagnosed with a learning disability. Every donation helps - just £100 could pay for a Makaton language programme class so parents can learn to communicate with their children.
"I would like to thank Connor and Ryan for promoting our cause and we can't wait to see all of the GAA fans at the finish line!"
The first deadline to sign up for the 2017 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon is Friday 31st March 2017. To register in aid of Mencap, email [email protected], call 02890 691 351 or visit mencapbigstepforward.org.
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