Accomplish a life achievement and improve your health and fitness. That’s what the Irish Heart Foundation is asking, as they call on the public to get off the couch and put their hearts into it for 2013.
At this time of year, many people are motivated to take their fitness to the next level and the Irish Heart Foundation is here to help hundreds of people reach their lifetime goals through their Great Heart Challenges.
For new and seasoned marathoners, the charity has much coveted places available for the New York, London, Boston, Chicago and Berlin marathons and is offering tour packages, including flights, accommodation, transfers and on-the-ground support, whilst giving participants a chance to make a substantial difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke.
Enda Kennedy, activity fundraising co-ordinator with the Irish Heart Foundation said: “Completing a marathon is a life-long ambition for many people, and an incredible fitness achievement. While this isn’t a challenge for everyone, those that take it on often wish to demonstrate their commitment to a cause, and it can be a particularly poignant goal to cross the finish line in memory of a loved one. Sadly, about 10,000 people die from heart disease and stroke here every year, and the support we receive from our marathon runners is crucial to help us continue our work in saving lives. Our international marathon places are extremely popular, and give runners the chance to take part in some of the best marathons in the world, whilst raising vital funds for heart and stroke patients at home.”
As well as international marathon packages, the Irish Heart Foundation has a calendar packed with unique overseas events, appealing to all fitness levels. This year it has joined forces with cycling legend Sean Kelly to offer a unique cycling challenge in Majorca catering for all levels of cyclist. Or participants can jet away to the Middle East for the unforgettable Big Heart Bike Ride in Jordan taking in wonders of the world like Petra, on route.
Back by popular demand, the Kilimanjaro hike will be recruiting a new team of explorers, and there is a further trip planned through the breathtaking Himalayas to Mount Everest Base Camp. Swimmers also have the opportunity to take part in a swimming holiday in the Montenegrin Riviera and the charity’s popular annual European walk will take place in Croatia. For more than 20 years the Irish Heart Foundation has brought walkers trekking in locations all over the world and the latest Croatian destination promises to be every bit as spectacular and challenging. Training walks will be organised by the Foundation in preparation for all overseas walks and treks.
To get motivated and find out more about the Irish Heart Foundation’s international marathon places and overseas challenges for 2013, contact Enda Kennedy at ekennedy@irishheart.ie or call (01) 668 5001. See www.irishheart.ie
Whatever your exercise goals are this year, the Irish Heart Foundation will offer support to get you there. Get started by trying out one of their 188 Slí na Sláinte walking routes around the country. Details of local routes can be found by visiting www.irishheart.ie/sli