USPCA Relay Team Ready to Run for Animal Welfare

USPCA Relay Team Ready to Run for Animal Welfare

Pictured L-R, Imelda, Dylan, Nora, Maria and Niall have the running vests ready! The team are squeezing in whatever training they can around their busy schedules as they prepare to take part in the Belfast City Marathon on Sunday 5th May 2024.

CEO Nora who has 'not ran in about 10 years' said 'I see firsthand the difference we make every day to improve animal welfare, and as we depend solely on public donations, I wanted to walk the walk (run in this case) and help directly with the fundraising. I've been following the couch to 5k programme and I am now able to run 2.5miles without needing a break!'

Head Veterinary Nurse Niall is also taking part, not too long after completing his own 50 at 50 challenge! Does he ever stop? Niall likes to run for recreation and head space. He usually runs twice and week and loves park runs. 

Receptionist Imelda has made it clear that she is not a runner but the team would not take no for an answer when asking her to get involved! Imelda said 'I prefer to dance, but have embraced the journey & have been training since the end of January. Working on interval training 3 times a week & in the last 4 weeks have started a spin class. It has been challenging at times, but the team have been a great support. I'm delighted to be part of a team that represents the passion & commitment of the USPCA & to raise awareness & help raise a few pounds along the way'.

Our go getter Animal Care Officer Maria is looking forward to the challenge as she noted 'running is a massive challenge for me lol also anything I can do to raise money/ awareness for the charity then i'm game!' Maria has been going for runs on her lunch break and likes heading up Slieve Gullion at the weekend.

We know the team will smash the relay race and we've asked them what song helps them keep the mind strong and the feet moving! Here's what some of our relay team will be pounding the pavement to:

Nora: Keep the Car Running by Arcade Fire

Imelda: Trustfall by Pink, Shivers by Ed Sheeran & Stronger by Kelly Clarkson 

Niall: Dog Days Are Over by Florence + the Machine

Maria: Hey Now by London Grammar ( Arty Remix ) and Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC

We are grateful of all donations big and small so if you would like to support the team to help them hit their fundraising target, donations can be made via the JustGiving Page

With your support, we can ensure that no animal is left behind.