Founded by sports journalist John O’Shea in 1977, GOAL is very much rooted in the sports and fitness world, and the 95km in June challenge is just one way in which people can get their gear on and run, walk or roll and help changes the lives of people facing famine, poverty and displacement.
Many Run Republic members will already be familiar with GOAL Mile, an annual fundraiser which sees tens of thousands of people in Ireland and beyond come together to run or walk a mile during the Christmas season in support of GOAL’s work.
95km in June is a little different in that it is a virtual event that sees participants follow a route totalling 95km through Ethiopia’s Afar region, which is one of toughest environmentson earth – think vast deserts with shallow salty lakes and towering volcanoes. Along the way, they will hit key milestones that highlight the impact of GOAL’s programmes in health, nutrition, livelihoods, and emergency response. The challenge is open to everyone, with each participant invited to complete the course at their own pace throughout the month of June, whether they’re hiking scenic trails, cycling around the neighbourhood, or walking in the local park.
Once people register, they will have access to their own unique interactive map which will track your personal progress through the harsh but resilient. As people travel through the virtual map the will unlocking exclusive updates and real-life stories from beneficiaries of GOAL’s vital work on the ground in some of the world’s most affected regions.
For example, Salha, a mother-of-five who was pregnant with her sixth child, arrived at a GOAL-supported health facility after fleeing violence in Khartoum, Sudan, a country in which millions have been displaced by conflict. Salha received antenatal care, vaccinations, mosquito nets, and a clean delivery kit and because of GOAL’s partnership with the hospital in Abujebeija, all her costs were covered. In March 2024, Salha delivered her baby safely.This is just one real-life example of how funds raised by GOAL can make real, positive difference to people in the world’s most vulnerable communities.
GOAL also have a GOAL Strava page, where people can connect with others taking on this unique and worthy challenge.
95km in aid of GOAL is a great way to embark on a personal fitness journey, all while raisingvital funds for people who are facing unimaginable hardship. It’s also an ideal opportunity to get together with friends and family to do something worthwhile across the month of June.
Find out how to sign up by visiting this link.