Long distance runners Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw are taking on the challenge of a lifetime this summer, in July and August they are aiming to run 32 marathons in 32 consecutive days across the 32 counties of Ireland to raise money for Autism charities Autism NI and Irish Autism Action. The Co Down marathon which will take place in Downpatrick will be run on Sunday 25th July and Gerry& Ken are asking local people to put on their running shoes and come out and support them for the Down leg of the challenge.
Runner Gerry Duffy, who came up with the idea, said: “The challenge will be tough but myself and Ken are ready to take it on. This is a great cause and we are determined to succeed and raise as much money as possible for Autism NI and Irish Autism Action. It is an amazing opportunity to run a marathon, half marathon or even a relay in your home county so we’re encouraging people from Co Down to come along and run with us on the 25thJuly.”
Joe Quinn from East Down Athletics Club commented, "we feel privileged to have been approached to help organise the Co. Down Leg of this superhuman effort and will be laying on a typical Downpatrick welcome for the 2 runners.  All local runners are especially encouraged to sign up but everyone is welcome to join them for all or part of the 26.2 miles which will be over a scenic course around the Quoile basin area. Supporters will also be welcome and if they can bring some money with them, no matter how little, it will be very welcome for these very deserving causes."
The challenge will come to the 6 counties of Northern Ireland from 22nd July- 27th July, giving local people the chance to do their bit for Autism NI. Gerry and Ken want to be joined by 32 different runners each day as they run around Ireland and Northern Ireland. Local people have the option to sign up for a full marathon, half marathon or enter a relay team with 5 friends. The 32 Marathon Challenge events team will be available to help all participants with fundraising. Sponsorship cards will be posted to each runner to help and the website (www.32marathons.com) also has loads of fun fundraising tips.
TV & Radio Presenter, Gerry Kelly who will be starting the marathon in Co Down commented: “I am delighted to be involved in such a fantastic event, Gerry and Ken have set themselves an overwhelming challenge for a really deserving cause! I urge the people of Co Down to get involved and sign up, whether it be for a full marathon or a leg in a relay- it all helps!”
Down District Council Chairman Councillor William Dick added, “I am very pleased to welcome Gerry and Ken to Down District.  It is an honour for this area to have been chosen to host the Co. Down leg of their challenge and I know that all the local runners will turn out to support this worthy cause.  I would appeal also to non runners to come along and give vocal and financial support to the runners as they embark on the 24th marathon in the series.”
Arlene Cassidy, Chief Executive Officer for Autism NI said: “As Northern Ireland’s Autism Charity we are delighted to be involved in opening up this unique challenge to our six counties in order to raise funds for the fastest rising disability in Northern Ireland.  The numbers of people with Autism have increased 400% in the past five years and over 20,000 individuals are now affected by this hidden disability within Northern Ireland, which now outstrips the total number of individuals with Down’s Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease within our community. I hope this event will catch the imagination and enthusiasm of everyone within Northern Ireland so that through their participation in this exciting challenge, they will help Autism NI to continue to provide a Helpline and Advocacy service for those families affected by Autism.”
For those interested in registering for the challenge, log on to www.32marathons.com. The website also has loads of information on the event as well as a range of training plans for all abilities, tips, FAQ’s and more. For further information please email kerry@autismni.org

For further information on the 32 Marathon Challenge or to arrange an interview please contact carly@avamanagement.com or call 02868632814

Northern Ireland Marathon Dates:
22nd July - Co. Derry/Londonderry
23rd July - Co.Tyrone
24th July - Co.Antrim
25th July - Co.Down
26th July - Co.Armagh
27th July - Co.Fermanagh