Frank Greally, who founded Irish Runner magazine 45 years ago this June, will celebrate his 75th birthday on Monday next, June 1st, by setting out on a 12-day walk from the site of the Old Coombe Hospital in Dublin’s Liberties, where he was born prematurely, to his hometown of Ballyhaunis in county Mayo.
“This will be my second time to walk the route; a lot of it along the banks of the Royal Canal,” Frank said. “Six years ago I completed my walk from Ballyhaunis to the site of the Old Coombe Hospital- a most fulfilling journey of sweet and precious memories.”
The number five has special significance for Frank this year. “It’s my 75th birthday on June 1st and the 45th anniversary of Irish Runner magazine, “Frank said. “In November, it will also be the 15th anniversary of the Remembrance Run 5K- the Walk or Run event that I co-founded with Athletics Ireland.
“My walk home on Gratitude Road will be a celebration and thanks for my own gift of days, continuing good health, family and friends.
“When I was born prematurely in the Old Coombe Hospital, I was not expected to survive, so I am grateful for every day that I have been gifted since then through a life that has had many challenges, but also a whole lot of joy.
“My Walk Home on Gratitude Road will have twin messages – Gratitude and Kindness and I will be visiting Primary Schools along my route to talk with teachers and children about how empowering, inspiring and liberating these words can be when put into action.
“My Primary School visits will also celebrate The Daily Mile, the 15-minutes-a-day Walk or Run initiative that I promote for Athletics Ireland. I will be able to show how a lifetime of regular exercise can lead to active ageing.”
Frank will be sharing his journey home across a number of social media sites, including his Facebook, Athletics Ireland, Irish Runner, and gratitude.ie – the newly launched website that is dedicated to his walk.
Frank will begin his Walk on Gratitude Road at 12 noon on Bank Holiday Monday, June 1st, from the site of the Old Coombe Hospital. His walk will start with a few songs to celebrate ‘The Joy Of Living’
There is an open invitation to attend and see him off on his journey Home.
Visit: gratitude.ie Contact Frank at: frankgreally@gmail.com to join him on one of the stages on Gratitude Road.