The People Behind Sanctuary Runners

John has been involved with Sanctuary Runners since the very first event - the 2018 Cork City Marathon - which brought him back into the world of running and opened his eyes to the need for a better integration...

Sibusisiwe is from Zimbabwe originally and moved to Ireland in 2017 where she discovered her love for running! Her running story has taken her from tentatively taking on a leg of the Cork Marathon relay in 2018 to...

Padraic is a Business Consultant specialising in technology governance and regulatory compliance in the Financial Services sector. With a long career in software and technology innovation, he has previously been a...

Sinead Walsh is Principal Research Fellow on climate at ODI Global and an independent consultant and author. Until 2025 she served as Climate Director in the Department of Foreign Affairs. Prior to this she served as...

Anna has been involved with Sanctuary Runners since 2018, when she was inspired by participating in the Cork half marathon to help bring the movement to Dublin. She served in a voluntary capacity as Chair of the...

Graham is the founder of the Sanctuary Runners. He previously worked as a feature writer and broadcaster in Ireland, the UK and Australia and his work brought him to parts of the world enduring conflict, poverty and...

Annie leads the Community Development team supporting our groups around the country.  Annie has demonstrated her passion and commitment for community development through sport throughout her career, spending 15 years...

John is an active member of the Limerick Sanctuary Runners, where he’s taken part in everything from running and mountain biking to hiking and post-race coffees with the group. John is also involved as a coach and...

Helen Basini or Bas, has worked in the not-for-profit sector for over 20 years. She has worked in both international development in Africa and Asia, and local Irish community initiatives in fundraising, monitoring...

Olive has worked in Education for almost two decades and has been driven by a genuine belief in the power of learning to open minds, build empathy and create more inclusive communities. Olive holds a Masters degree...

Michelle is a lifelong advocate in using creativity and connection, as powerful tools to create safe spaces to thrive and grow for all.  An established background in communications, firstly leading a division of a...

Berta joined Sanctuary Runners in 2023 as part of the Tallaght group, drawn by the movement’s focus on community-building, inclusion, and wellness through sport. Originally from Barcelona, she has lived in Ireland...