Relay for Life a great success
There were 32 teams from all over Kildare set up under the stands of the Curragh Racecourse and in the center of the team's set up was a track the size of half a football field which had a continuous relay of Walkers over 24 hours.
The event started by survivors of cancer doing the circuit first, they were then treated to a meal. The circuit continued through out the night and next day. At 9pm in the centre of the circuit the Candle of Light bags were light up and at this stage a period of silence occurred. This was an incredible and moving experience for anyone who attended.
Each team had a target of €1,000 to raise and this could be done before the event, which €870 of that was done by the Kilcullen Team by selling the bags for the Candle of Light cermony at Kilcullen Festival. We set up a home baking stall with a feature novelty cake as first prize in a raffle. A further €473 was raised which brought our total to €1343.
All funds raised through Relay for Life Kildare stays in the county for cancer care services.
The team from Kilcullen was supported by Kilcullen Scouts who provided a presence through out the 24 hours. They set up their gazebo for the Kilcullen stand and had a sleeping tent set up for themselves. They were incredibly self sufficient, organised and helpful. We are incredibly grateful for their backing and they also have pledged their support for the Kilcullen Team for future Relay for Life Kildare.
The Relay gives everyone who has been through or has been touched by cancer to connect with each other. It is a 24 hours packed with entertainment provided by talent from all over the county and is a complete family friendly alcohol free event. Apart from local bands there was yoga at 8am Sunday morning which Pat Kelly participated. The Newbridge gospel choir sang at 10am and the Scouts joined in a Zumba session at 11am.
Teams provided very varied stalls. There were a group of farriers shaping horse shoes throughout the 24 hours. There were the army, Newbridge fire brigade, various GAA clubs and other teams from locations in the county.
We hope that this event will grow from now on and If anyone would like to be involved in the Kilcullen Team please let me know.
(Photos by conorwilliams.com)
