Laois school set to take on record-breaking dash across Laois GAA pitches

Ballyfin NS is set to make history with its Dash to 44 Challenge, a massive fundraising run taking place on Saturday, March 22. The ambitious event aims to raise funds for a new astro turf pitch while also supporting Kolbe Special School in Portlaoise.

Fifty dedicated runners will attempt a never-before-seen feat, completing a lap of every GAA pitch in Laois in a single day. Covering 44 pitches, the challenge is both a test of endurance and a statement of community spirit.

So far, the school has raised an impressive €46,000, with the goal of reaching €50,000. A portion of the funds, €2,500, will go to Kolbe Special School. To add extra motivation, a friendly competition among the runners will see the top fundraiser awarded a trophy.

The route begins at Ballyfin NS before heading to nearby Rosenallis and continuing across the county, covering pitches from Ballacolla to St. Joseph’s. The full challenge is expected to take 15 hours, culminating in a special lap of honour at Ballyfin GAA, where Ballyfin NS and Kolbe students will join in the celebrations.

See the map route below. Read more below picture

Among the participants are well-known athletes Dearbhail Cuddy and Bernadette Spillane, who will lead the charge. Cuddy, an Olympian, and Spillane, a bronze medalist from the 2023 Masters Athletics Championships, bring a wealth of experience to the event.

Many runners have personal reasons for taking part. Former Laois Senior footballer and Ballyfin native James Finn is running to support his nephews who attend Ballyfin NS and would benefit from the new astro turf pitch. Laois County Councillor Tommy Mulligan is also joining the challenge to improve sports facilities for local children, including his own nephew.

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Organisers are calling on GAA clubs and the wider community to get behind the runners and show their support along the route. For more information on the runners visit the Ballyfin National School Parents Association’s Facebook page. Anyone wishing to donate can do so by clicking HERE.