A group of asylum seekers and Irish locals are coming together to run the Dublin Marathon, an event that has helped them find hope and camaraderie. The Sanctuary Runners team, consisting of 100 individuals, including a quarter seeking international protection in Ireland, is gearing up to make history with the highest number of international protection applicants participating in a full marathon worldwide.
Graham Clifford, the founder of Sanctuary Runners, expressed that this record-breaking attempt is a celebration of diversity and unity among people from all walks of life. Many of the asylum seekers in the group have faced challenging living situations, including accommodation shortages and financial constraints, making their journey to the starting line a remarkable achievement in itself.
Among the participants are individuals like Thobekile Ncube and Thembi Tshuma from Zimbabwe, who have found solace and empowerment through running. Tshuma, who is currently working in cleaning and security, credits Sanctuary Runners for transforming her life from a dark place to one filled with strength and positivity. The sense of solidarity and community within the running group has been a beacon of light for many participants, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Sanctuary Runners, with 42 groups across Ireland and over 20,000 participants since its inception in 2018, focuses on promoting community integration through various physical activities. The diverse makeup of the team, with members from different backgrounds and nationalities, creates a unique dynamic that highlights the shared humanity and spirit of togetherness among individuals.
As the Dublin Marathon approaches, the Sanctuary Runners team is gearing up to showcase the power of unity and resilience in the face of adversity. This event is not just about running a race; it is a celebration of the people who come together, transcending legal status, nationality, and ethnicity to embrace the common bond of humanity.
The participation of asylum seekers and Irish locals in the Dublin Marathon sends a powerful message of inclusivity and solidarity, highlighting the transformative power of community and physical activity in overcoming challenges and fostering connections. This event is not only about crossing the finish line but about crossing boundaries and uniting people from all corners of the world in a shared journey of hope and perseverance.