Tony Power was a quiet driving force behind the Sanctuary Runner Movement. He has supported us since day one through his work in the social inclusion and community section of Cork City Council. Sadly Tony passed away in his sleep on Monday morning at the age of 57. We are heartbroken at his loss.
“We’re reeling from this awfully sad news. Tony championed the Sanctuary Runners from day one. In his role working in the area of Social Inclusion with Cork City Council he immediately understood the unique possibilities the Sanctuary Runner concept had to bring people together in Cork and further afield and was always, always at our back. He’d source funding, suggest ideas, be a fantastic sounding board and work to have our partnership highlighted. Indeed Tony guided us to national awards with the Sanctuary Runners, and while he was never one for the limelight, I know he was so joyful for and excited about the success of the movement.
No matter how crazy the idea we’d put to him Tony would always be up for exploring the possibilities, I honestly can never remember him saying ‘no’ to any proposal. Recently he was helping us to set up Sanctuary Runner groups in the cities abroad with which Cork City is twinned. He was thrilled with the possibility of seeing this wonderful thing we started here in Cork grow and grow.”
He was a fantastic ally, with his beaming smile and decency. Always trying to find a way to help. He passionately believed in initiatives to help those on the margins of society and could see why social cohesion was vital for an evolving city. We are heartbroken today and feel like we have a lost a father figure. Many of our Sanctuary Runners in Direct Provision centres in Cork have been expressing their sadness and sorrow since they heard the news too. His legacy to Cork and beyond will endure and every time we run, especially in his beloved Cork City Marathon, we’ll remember this great man who did so much, quietly and humbly.”
Graham Clifford – Founder of the Sanctuary Runners
I couldn’t agree more, he was a very supportive & encouraging colleague and friend. Condolences to his partner, family, friends
I’m so saddened by Tony’s departure on earth. You were a great man and a man of excellency, we will forever remember you of your greatness and your motto of promoting social cohesion among communities. Heaven has gained an angel, may your soul rest in eternal peace. Sanctuary Runners will never be the same without you Tony.