Castlewellan man’s reflects on epic marathon run from Cork to Belfast in nine days

Castlewellan man’s reflects on epic marathon run from Cork to Belfast in nine days

26 August 2015

CASTLEWELLAN man Brian McGeown has proved the power of mind over matter with an astonishing nine-and-a-half marathons in nine days. 

Brian set out on an epic run of almost 250 miles from Cork to Belfast last week to help three charities close to his heart.

The 36 year-old restauranteur was touched by the difficulties overcome by people in his life, including two young children and looks set to hit his £5,000 fundraising target for the Children’s Heartbeat Trust, The Down’s Syndrome Association and Mind Your Mate and Yourself, which works to reduce the risk of suicide in the community.

Brian had explained that one of his main inspirations is a four year-old boy called Harry Farrell who has beaten the odds to survive major heart sugary since he was born with a congenital heart defect.

“Harry is my business partner’s nephew and because of a congenital heart condition he has had open heart surgery three or four times in his first few years, but he shows no fear,” he said.

“His resilience is amazing and he is such a beautiful lively child.

“The Children’s Heartbeat Trust provide financial, physical, emotional support for the parents and families of children like Harry; they are a small charity so they rely on this type of support to be on hand to help people.

“Another friend also recently had a premature baby with Down’s Syndrome and there is nothing I can do to help them personally but I can do this run.”

Brian said a recent spike in suicide rates, particularly affecting the young, in his home area meant he was also keen to support MYMY.

Brian’s training plan had included doing the Belfast marathon followed by two more in June and July but he cracked a bone in his foot meaning he had only been back training for the last six or seven weeks. He was therefore nervous about the road ahead, but hopeful previous running experience, such as running from Belfast to Dublin, would help.

Speaking after he crossed the finish line on Thursday, Brian said: “I feel fine, I feel a bit sore.”

He added: “I didn’t do much training. It’s more in your head — mind over matter.”

To make a donation visit Brian’s fundraising webpage at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/brianmcgeown1crazyrun