John Buckley 10k Youth Challenge offers Cork teens a chance to test themselves

CORK City Council recently launched the Cork City Marathon John Buckley Sports 2024 Youth Challenge in Coláiste an Phiarsaigh Secondary School in Glanmire. 

Once again, secondary schools and youth clubs all over Cork City are being invited to sign up teams to enter the 2024 10k John Buckley Sports Youth Challenge.

This year Cork City Council are delighted to announce that John Buckley Sports have come on board as sponsors for the challenge. 

Following its successful debut last year, the 10k race will continue alongside the full and half marathons, with its inclusion last year providing anyone 15 years or older, still in school, a chance to give the new 10k a go. This coincided with the first-ever Youth Challenge, seeing over 70 young people take part from eight schools across the City.

Councillor Kieran McCarthy, the Lord Mayor of Cork, commented: “The Youth Challenge is all about creating a platform to inspire young people to get involved in Cork's fab marathon day. 

The day is for all Corkonians, from young to old. Get involved in one of the city’s largest gatherings of people - all in the aid of sport, well-being, charities, comradeship and much more. 

"Walk, jog, or run in this year’s John Buckley Sports Youth Challenge."

A Youth Challenge co-ordinator, Chris Harrington, a qualified and highly respected athletics coach, has been hired to go into schools to promote the event, along with training plans, nutrition advice and a host of tips and tricks for those interested.

Cian Quigley, a teacher in Coláiste an Phiarsaigh has said: “We here at Coláiste an Phiarsaigh are thrilled to be taking part in this year’s Youth Challenge. 

"The event has become an integral event on the school’s calendar and once again this year we will enter as part of the Sanctuary Runners team.

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"It’s an incredible way for our whole school community to take part in one of the most important events that happens in our city, and it exposes us to the excitement, togetherness and sense of achievement that comes with running. 

"Both students and teachers from a wide range of sporting and non-sporting backgrounds take part but we all feel as one as we run around the streets of Cork. 

"The support along the course sends a shiver down the spine and the experience of running down Patrick’s Street with the crowds cheering is something to be cherished, enjoyed, and remembered.” 

Great news, for this year’s Youth Challenge there will be a discount code made available by Cork City Council for registering. This will reduce the cost from €27 to €15.

The 10k begins at the exact same location as the marathon, allowing runners to share the start-line experience as well as that final finish on St Patrick’s Street. For those who enjoy the comradery and teamwork, you’ll have the option of entering as a team.

The race will have dedicated pacers and all results will be available online after. All participants will receive a medal and will be in with the chance of winning some great spot prizes.

Please contact Chris at charrington.ie@gmail.com to register your groups interest for the Youth Challenge.