Spa NS pupils are joined by teacher Mary Crowe, Fionnbar Walsh, secretary Rebecca Ryan Griffin, parents Caroline Lyons and Jenny Galvin and Principal Peter Linehan at the launch of the Donal Walsh 6km Walk and Run which takes place on May 24. Photo by Dermot CreanSPA National School was full of excitement and anticipation on Tuesday morning as the details for the upcoming 2026 ‘Donal Walsh Spa 6K Challenge’ were announced.
This hugely popular event was first held in 2014 and has become a firm favourite on the community calendar in the Spa.
Over the years the event has gone from strength to strength but the upcoming event on May 24 promises to be better than ever.
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The whole school community is busy organising another family fun day in honour of Donal, their past pupil.
“Everyone seems to really enjoy this day out! We want to yet again honour Donal in a special way and so the committee is working to create an event where people of all ages and fitness levels can come together for a few hours, have fun and ‘live life’ just as Donal urged us all to. The “live life” message is just as relevant today as it was in 2014!” said school principal Peter Linehan.
“It really is a triumph of hard work and teamwork. Huge credit must go to our organising committee who have been working tirelessly over the past few weeks to ensure that everything will be ready on the day,” added Peter.
The school will certainly be a hive of activity with a fabulous market in operation. There will fun games and challenges for young and old to enjoy all day too.
There will be the annual live rocket competition for students to participate in. The Parent’s Association is also organising a beautiful food court on site with hot food, ice creams, teas and tasty treats also being served up as well.
There will be face painters, live music and DJ Tony will host a lively show to entertain everyone.
However, the main event of the day will again be the ‘Spa 6K Challenge’ a 6km looped run/walk starting and finishing at the school.
The event is designed for all participants, from those looking to race and secure a ‘personal best time’ to those out for an enjoyable stroll along the scenic route.
Donal’s parents Fionbarr & Elma will yet again officially start the run/walk at 11.30am Everyone is welcome to come along and register from 10am on the morning, but they can also pre-register at the school.
Please call 066 7136618 or email info@spanationalschool.ie for full details.
