Get your Family off the Couch and get Fit with The Garmin Great Ireland Run 2018

09 January 2018

After the indulgence of the festive season, the New Year is a perfect time to take on the challenge of getting fit together as a family. The Garmin Great Ireland Run with the help of Personal Trainer, Sean Harding and Olympic athlete, Fionnuala McCormack who won the Great Ireland Run in 2016 are encouraging families to get off the couch and get active for 2018, by joining them for a fun, healthy family day out in Dublin’ Phoenix Park on April 15th.

The 18th annual Great Ireland Run, sponsored this year by technology brand Garmin, is one of Ireland’s leading sporting events, and part of the world's biggest mass participation running series, The Great Run Company. With the event taking place in the Spring, it is a perfect opportunity for people to make a commitment towards a healthier lifestyle this year, as they spend time training and having fun getting fit together as a family.

Garmin’s Head of Marketing Richard Daish said, “We’re delighted to announce the Garmin Great Ireland Run. Garmin is passionate about improving runners at all levels through use of GPS Technology. Whether embarking on a first run, working to progress performance or smashing your PB there is a Garmin device to accompany every runner – 5k, 10, half or full. We’re excited to see runners enjoying the outdoors and taking on the challenge to Beat Yesterday.”

Thousands of runners of all ages and abilities will come together in the beautiful surroundings of Europe’s largest urban park for a fun-filled day out. The event has also seen many of Ireland’s elite athletes take part.

There is something to suit everyone on the day, with the choice of a 10k or a 5k run, as well as mini events suitable for kids from three to 15 years old. After the run, kids will take home their very own finisher's bags, which will include lots of goodies including some branded souvenirs!

Personal Trainer Sean Harding, one the creators of ‘Behind the Basics’ health and fitness expo, is excited to take part on the day. Sean said “Being fit and active is something that is so important to me and it’s great to have a goal to work towards after the Christmas indulgence, it makes it easier to just get back on it! Signing up for the Great Ireland Run is the perfect way to make that commitment to getting healthier in the New Year.”

Sean continued, “I will be sharing a training plan and tips in preparation for the race which I hope will help to motivate others to sign up and get fit with us in 2018.”

Speaking about the event, Gareth Turnbull, Director of the Great Ireland Run, said “This is the 18th year of the Great Ireland Run and this year it will be bigger and better than ever. It’s a family-friendly event that suits every level of runner and to help you get started we are providing training programmes and tips for all participants when you sign up.”

Early bird tickets are available for a limited time only and cost €20 for entry to the 10k, €15 for entry to the 5k and €10 for entry to the mini events (1.5k and 2.9k).

To enter online and find out more information about the Great Ireland Run please visit www.greatrun.org/great-ireland-run