Children’s Grief Centre announced as official charity partner for 2026 Great Limerick Run Kids Fun Run

The official launch of the 2026 Kids Fun Run took place on Thursday, 19th March, with Councillor Sharon Benson, representing the Mayor of Limerick, Councillor Bridie Collins, representing the Priomh Chomhairleoir Catherine Slattery, Sean Lenihan , Brian McCarthy, Brendan Troy, Limerick City and County Council, Maggie and Carol Fitzgough, Orla Ryan from the Children’s Grief Centre, and Sliabh Wells, from the Bear Group in attendance. Picture: Keith Wiseman

The Great Limerick Run Kids Fun Run has announced Children’s Grief Centre as 2026 official charity partner ahead of the Saturday, May 2 event

The Great Limerick Run Kids Fun Run, held in association with Limerick City & County Council, will return on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, at the University of Limerick, with organisers proud to announce the Children’s Grief Centre as this year’s official charity partner.

A much-loved part of the wider Regeneron Great Limerick Run weekend, the Kids Fun Run encourages children and families to get active, enjoy the atmosphere of race day, and take part in a fun and inclusive event that celebrates participation, community and movement. This year’s partnership adds an important community dimension to the event, helping shine a light on the work of a local organisation that supports children and young people through some of life’s most difficult moments.

The official launch of the 2026 Kids Fun Run took place on Thursday, 19th March, with Councillor Sharon Benson, representing the Mayor of Limerick, Councillor Bridie Collins, representing the Priomh Chomhairleoir Catherine Slattery, Joe Delaney, Brendan Troy and Sean Lenihan from Limerick City & County Council, Carol Fitzgough from the Children’s Grief Centre, and Sliabh Wells, from the Bear Group in attendance.

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The Children’s Grief Centre provides support for school aged children and young people affected by loss through death, separation or divorce. The organisation offers a safe and supportive place for children, young people and their families who are grieving, with services delivered by trained and experienced people.

The Kids Fun Run welcomes young participants across a range of age groups and distances. Staged at the University of Limerick, the event combines fitness, fun and encouragement in an atmosphere designed to create lasting memories for children and their families.

Deputising for Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, Cllr Sharon Benson commented: “This really exciting partnership for what is now a traditional event in the May Bank Holiday weekend calendar reflects everything that is good about Limerick. We are committed to promoting health, wellbeing and community spirit among our young people and this collaboration reflects that aim. The annual Kid’s Fun Run is a great way to inspire the next generation to stay active and become the participants of the Great Limerick Run in the future. We’re looking forward to seeing children of all ages take part and have fun on the day.”

Joe Delaney, Deputy Director General at Limerick City and County Council said “The Kids Fun Run is one of the most uplifting parts of the Great Limerick Run, bringing families together and encouraging children to enjoy being active in a positive and supportive environment. We look forward to welcoming families from all over Limerick and beyond to what promises to be a memorable day at the University of Limerick.”

Carol Fitzgough Fundraising and Events Coordinator for the Children’s Grief Centre said: “We are absolutely delighted to be chosen as the official charity for the Kid’s Fun Run at the Great Limerick Run 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together, inspire young runners, and raise vital support for the Children’s Grief Centre. Every step the children take will help make a real difference in the lives of those we support.”

Sliabh Wells, Managing Director of The Bear Group, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Children’s Grief Centre as our charity partner for this year’s Kids Fun Run. The work they do in supporting children and families across the region is truly invaluable, and we’re proud to help raise awareness of the services they provide.

We’d also like to thank Limerick City & County Council for their continued support of the event. Their backing plays a key role in allowing us to deliver such a positive and inclusive experience for young participants and their families each year.”

By partnering with the Children’s Grief Centre, this year’s Kids Fun Run will not only inspire the next generation to enjoy running and physical activity, but will also help raise awareness of a vital service supporting children, young people and families across the region.

Further event information and registration details are available on the Regeneron Great Limerick Run website.