

Charity
Great Limerick Run ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ announces Cliona’s Foundation partnership
Great Limerick Run’s ‘Children’s Run for Fun,’ Held in Conjunction with Limerick City & County Council, Announces Exciting New Partnership with Cliona’s Foundation. Limerick Olympic legend Sarah Lavin joined by Harvey and Bonnie Curtin. Picture: Keith Wiseman
Great Limerick Run’s ‘Children’s Run for Fun,’ Held in Conjunction with Limerick City & County Council, Announces Exciting New Partnership with Cliona’s Foundation

The highly anticipated ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ as part of the Great Limerick Run festival is set to return in 2025 with an exciting new partnership. Organisers are delighted to announce a collaboration with Cliona’s Foundation.
Cliona’s Foundation is a Limerick-based charity that provides financial assistance to families of children with life-limiting conditions to help with the significant non-medical costs of caring for their child while in hospital or at home. This partnership will further enhance the event’s commitment to community engagement and youth participation in sport while also raising awareness and support for an important cause.
The official launch of the 2025 ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ took place at the Sports Grounds of the University of Limerick, with key figures in attendance including Cllr Ursula Gavan, deputising for the Mayor of Limerick, Sliabh Wells, Managing Director of The Bear Group, Brendan Ring, Voluntary CEO of Cliona’s Foundation; Sarah Lavin, Irish Olympian; and Laura Ryan Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs at University of Limerick
The ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ which takes places on the Saturday, 3rd of May, is a cornerstone event within the broader Great Limerick Run festival, which is hosted in conjunction with Limerick City & County Council.
Each year the event attracts thousands of young runners and their families, fostering a love of fitness and participation in a fun inclusive atmosphere. With the support of Cliona’s Foundation, the event will not only promote physical activity but also help drive fundraising and awareness for families facing significant challenges.
Cliona’s Foundation has been a lifeline for many families across Ireland, providing much-needed financial assistance to those caring for seriously ill children. Through this partnership, the ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ will help raise awareness of the foundation’s work.

“The dedication and hard work of everyone involved in Cliona’s Foundation is truly inspiring, said Cllr Ursula Gavan, deputising for the Mayor of Limerick.
“Events like the ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ help raise awareness while also promoting physical health and well-being and fostering a sense of community and joy. It’s wonderful to see our young runners participating in such a meaningful cause, and we look forward to an inspiring and successful event.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Cliona’s Foundation and Limerick City & County Council for the 2025 ‘Children’s Run for Fun,” said Sliabh Wells, Managing Director at the Bear Group. “As a community-driven event, it’s incredibly important for us to support a local charity that does such vital work for families in need. This partnership is a perfect match, as it not only encourages young runners to get involved in sport but also helps shine a light on an incredible cause. We look forward to working together to make this year’s event the best yet.”
“We are absolutely delighted and very proud to be chosen as a partner for the Children’s Run for Fun. And are very grateful to the Bear Group for their commitment to us” said Brendan Ring Co-founder & Voluntary CEO of Cliona’s.

Brendan said, “Families are at the very heart of what we do at Cliona’s. We also recognise the importance of family fun days out, whether you are enjoying those precious years that fly by or taking part in solidarity with those who are caring for a sick child who is unable to take part themselves.
“There could be families participating that have received support, need our support or know a family that does, so building awareness is hugely important & having a visible across the event platforms is invaluable.”
He added, “We are looking forward to joining everyone on what we know will be a magical day for all”
The 2025 ‘Children’s Run for Fun’ promises to be bigger and better than ever, inspiring the next generation of runners while making a meaningful difference in the lives of families supported by Cliona’s Foundation. Further event updates will be announced in the coming months and participants can sign up for this year’s event now.