An ex-prisoner and now full-time triathlete who works to combat crime and addiction, has created a major running event in his home area of Darndale.
His transformation prompted Ger Redmond to establish the Darndale ‘Another Way 5K’ which will attract hundreds of participants of all abilities to the local park on Saturday, April 27.
It forms part of a local campaign to ‘Get the Message out’ to young people on the dangers of crime and addiction.
Established in 2022, the 5K has grown to become one of the biggest events of its kind in the city.
And its success has now prompted founder Ger to establish a running club in the area, with the help of his friend, Anthony Brady.
This year’s event will be promoted by the newly-formed Coolock Running Club for the first time.
The new club is developing a strong network in Darndale.
Runners of all ages, abilities, and their families will descend on Darndale Park for the event, which begins at 11.00 am.
Darndale’s community spirit will be to the fore at the 5K, which also aims to assist in building support networks for those determined to exit a lifestyle involving crime and addiction.
It is one of a number of projects backed by the Darndale Implementation Oversight Group, a Dublin City Council initiative to tackle longstanding, complex and engrained issues in Darndale.
“Happiness and true success is only real when you reach back and share with others,” said Ger, who was imprisoned for his involvement with drugs, but now delivers talks in prisons, schools and youth centres.
He said sport and fitness had helped turn his life around.
“Sport is a wonderful way to heal both the physical and mental. This event is growing, and I hope it will form part of the community calendar for many years to come.
“And it has led to the formation of a club which sees locals come together to run, jog or walk, discuss their lives and achieve goals perhaps they never thought possible.”
According to Dr Jack Nolan, the chair of the Darndale Implementation Oversight Group, such events are needed to show communities affected by drugs they are not forgotten.
“The Get The Message Out Darndale Another Way 5K encourages people to consider a different way of life by highlighting opportunities, services and activities available to help them reach their full potential,” said Dr Nolan.
Traffic and parking will be restricted in the area on the day. Those who wish to volunteer as stewards can contact Ger.Nolan@nspartnership.ie
Other supporting organisations include Archways Systemic Family Support, Northside Partnership, The Dales Centre, Sphere 17 Regional Youth Service, Slainte Care Healthy Communities, Active Cities, Dublin City Council Sport and Wellbeing, Dublin City Council North Central Area Office, Darndale Football Club and An Garda Síochána.