Mayo business taking part in half marathon for worthy cause

The team at JJ Burke Car Sales is swapping car showrooms for running shoes as they take part in the Galway Bay Half Marathon on October 5th, 2024, in support of Charlotte's Vision—a charity dedicated to raising vital funds for Metastatic Breast Cancer research. The charity, founded in 2022 by the friends and family of Charlotte Sweeney, partners with the National Breast Cancer Research Institute to fund groundbreaking research aimed at improving treatment and finding a cure for breast cancer.

For the JJ Burke team, this is more than just a marathon—it’s a community-driven effort to support a cause that touches many lives. Karen Burke, Dealer Principal at JJ Burke Car Sales, expressed her excitement about their participation: “We are thrilled to be able to support such an amazing charity that does so much for breast cancer. We are so proud of our team for getting out of their cars and hitting the streets of Galway to run this half marathon. It’s going to be a fantastic day for everyone involved, and we’re looking forward to making a meaningful contribution.” While JJ Burke Car Sales is stepping up to the challenge, Caroline Downey, Chairperson of Charlotte's Vision and well-known RTÉ Today Show Stylist, will also be leading her group of family and friends in the half marathon. Caroline, who is more accustomed to the glamour of TV and fashion, is swapping her heels for runners to support the cause: "I’m not a big runner; my motto is slow and steady wins the race," Caroline said with a smile. "But I’m excited to do this for Charlotte and National Breast Cancer Research alongside my sister Suzanne and close friends."

In addition to these participants, Charlotte's sister and brother-in-law will be flying in from the UK to join in the marathon, further underscoring the international support for this important cause.

Charlotte's Vision has garnered support from local businesses and individuals alike, and the involvement of companies like JJ Burke Car Sales is key to its success. The charity encourages other businesses and communities to get involved, whether through participating in the full marathon, half marathon, or 10km event. Together, they aim to raise as much as possible for Metastatic Breast Cancer research.

Charlotte’s mother, Virgie, added: “We’re incredibly proud of everyone for participating and raising money for such a worthy cause. We hope that if anyone is running the event and hasn’t chosen a charity yet, they will consider supporting Charlotte’s Vision.” 

For those already registered for the Galway Bay Half Marathon and looking to support Charlotte's Vision, or for businesses interested in getting involved, please contact charlottesvision22@gmail.com or call Caroline at 087 4482070. Donations can also be made via the iDonate page at https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/TEAMCharlottesVision