This Sunday brings long distance runners Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw to Downpatrick for the Co Down leg of the 32 Marathon Challenge. The duo are taking on the challenge of a lifetime  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. They began their superhuman effort on 2nd July in Longford and the Downpatrick event will be number 24 in the series. To date  the word is that while Gerry has been completing each run in around 4 hours and 15 minutes, Ken has been struggling with injury but has completed all, sometimes taking up to 8 hours to finish.
Gerry, who came up with the idea, said beforehand “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 so we’re encouraging people from Co Down to come along and run with us on the 25thJuly.” Certainly, given the enormity of the task, they deserve every support. 
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. Local runners are being encouraged to sign up but  runners from across the County will be especially 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."
TV & Radio Presenter, Gerry Kelly who will be present at the start said “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!”  He will be joined by Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Eamonnn O'Neill to send the runners on their way.
Anyone wishing to take part should register in Down Leisure Centre from 8.30am from where the full marathon will begin at 10.00am. Participants are asked to make a significant donation to the charities by way of Entry fee.
 Those who have entered teams will begin at 1.00pm in order to finish around the time of the marathon runners. Refreshments will be provided afterwards for all participants.