Many of the athletes taking part in this morning’s Waterside Half Marathon are competing with one achievement in mind – raising money for a charity close to their hearts.
Connor Allen with his nephew Leon.
Competitors from throughout Ireland and further afield will make up the largest ever number to compete in the event – now in its 32nd year.
One competitor partaking in aid of charity is Connor Allen, from Castlerock, who will be taking part in his first ever half marathon.
He said his decision to choose the Derry event as his first ever half marathon was a “no brainer.”
Connor, a coffee barista (a specialist coffee maker) is running to raise funds for Kids Autism.
He said: “My nephew Leon has autism. I have been to Derry a few times for CIty of Culture events, including the Walled City Marathon as a spectator and the Fleadh. The excitement and the atmosphere at both of these convinced me that my first half marathon would be the Waterside.”
Connor, who plays for Portrush Football Club in the North West League and has represented Northern Ireland at intermediate cross-country, said he would be delighted to record a time of 1 hr 20 mins.
To date, his sponsorship for the half-marathon stands at £360 but he has set a target of £1,ooo and is confident of reaching that figure with a number of fundraising events, including a “Night at the Races,” to be held shortly.
Look out for Connor – he will be wearing number 1338.
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