Sanctuary Runners took part in the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon on Sunday, May 31st, with a group of 40 women running in blue as part of one of Ireland’s largest participation sporting events. The group, made up of women from Ireland, Somalia, Nigeria and Ukraine, among others, brought energy, solidarity and a strong sense of
Sanctuary Runners took part in the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon on Sunday, May 31st, with a group of 40 women running in blue as part of one of Ireland’s largest participation sporting events.
The group, made up of women from Ireland, Somalia, Nigeria and Ukraine, among others, brought energy, solidarity and a strong sense of togetherness to the streets of Dublin, joining thousands of participants on the day.
For many involved, the event was an opportunity to take part in a national event in a way that felt inclusive, supportive and welcoming.
“I thoroughly enjoyed it – it was fun, the atmosphere was electrifying. There was massive support everywhere you turned. I already have a ticket for next year, that’s how much I enjoyed it,” said Sumbo, a long-term Sanctuary Runner.
The visibility of the group at events like the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon plays an important role in highlighting the importance of access, safety, and belonging in sporting environments. Running side by side, participants build confidence, form connections and experience the benefits of community participation in a very real way.
Alongside taking part in this year’s event, we are also raising funds to provide sports bras for those in our groups who need them, helping to ensure everyone can take part comfortably and with confidence.
Access to appropriate sportswear can often be a barrier to participation, particularly for those rebuilding their lives in new communities. By addressing this need, we aim to remove a practical obstacle and make running more accessible to all.
Donations to support this initiative can be made via this link, with all contributions going directly towards supporting participants across our running groups.
Sanctuary Runners continues to grow its presence across Ireland and beyond, using running as a simple but powerful way to bring people together and build inclusive communities grounded in solidarity, friendship, and respect.
