Adam, tell us more about this challenge you’ve set yourself, and how it’s going?

In February, I embarked on a challenge to run a series of half and full marathons across Ireland for One in Four. While wearing the t-shirt and colours of One In Four, my goal is to spread awareness and increase visibility by running through various towns and peninsulas in four Irish counties.

So far, I have completed three events, the first being a half-marathon in Mamore, County Donegal, covering over 20km from Mamore down to Buncrana. My second challenge was the Dingle Marathon in County Kerry with the best weather conditions of all my runs, with temperatures over 20°C and no wind. The route took me along Slea Head Drive, down to Coumeenole, towards Ventry, through Ballyferriter village, and finished in Dingle town. Despite the challenging conditions, the scenic beauty made it the most breathtaking—yet demanding—run I’ve completed to date. My third run was on October 5th, where I completed a 42km run starting in Galway city, and continuing through Salthill along the coast.

My runs so far have been incredibly rewarding and offered their fair share of challenges. Picture this: stunning views that take your breath away, coupled with inclines that… well, also take your breath away, but for entirely different reasons! What really inspired me were the conversations I had in each town and with fellow runners. The support and appreciation I felt was overwhelming.

I have one run left with the Dublin Marathon on October 27th, running through familiar streets and towns for One in Four.

Have you done something like this before? What inspired you to take it on?

This challenge represents a significant leap in my own athletic endeavours. While I did participate in the Dublin marathon last year and am quite naturally fit, this challenge pushed me in so many different ways and really made me to think creatively. Doing runs which span across different counties involves different types of trails, routes, conditions all of which have had to be accounted for in nutrition, strength and conditioning and running training. The sheer magnitude of this challenge is something I wouldn’t have even contemplated a mere year ago

When it comes to inspiration, I’ve always found myself drawn to individuals who push their limits and take on monumental challenges. I’ve been particularly moved by feats like Spencer Matthews’ Great Desert Challenge, where he tackled the Marathon des Sables, often dubbed the toughest foot race on Earth. Another source of motivation has been Jonny Davies’ impressive Run the London Underground and Run the Capitals Challenge. These challenges showcase the incredible potential of human endurance and determination. However, while these examples have been inspiring for me, the catalyst for my specific challenge stems from a deeply personal and profoundly emotional connection.

Recently, I received the news that someone very close to me had been sexually abused as a child and in a time when the Catholic Church held an enormous sway over society, its opinions permeating every aspect of life. One In Four didn’t exist back then. However, I firmly believe that had their services and support been available, they could have made a substantial and positive difference to this person, and many others as they do for countless individuals today. As the government continues to release reports detailing the history of childhood sexual abuse in Ireland, the critical importance of One In Four and their positive impact is evident.

The primary goal I set for myself was twofold: to acknowledge the incredible work One in Four does across Ireland, and to spread awareness and fundraise to support the the vital services they provide. Running, for me, seemed like the most impactful way I could contribute. It allowed me to physically carry the message of One in Four across different parts of Ireland, quite literally bringing visibility to the cause with every step. The physical challenge of running multiple marathons also served as a metaphor for the challenging journey that survivors of childhood sexual abuse often face—a journey that requires endurance, support, and resilience.

How are you feeling with three races down and one to-go?

It’s funny you should ask because I’m amidst the taper so doing a lot of maintenance getting a lot of sleep in and recovery. I am hoping in my final race I will get a new PB, and as part of a drive to raise more funds for One In Four, I will be donating 5 euro for every KM I do in 5 minutes and under. Overall, feeling pretty good, no big concerns but looking back over these past few months, it’s been one heck of a ride. Each run, each journey has been its own mini adventure is how I would call it.

I’ll be honest with you, Nicola. This journey has been far more taxing – both mentally and physically – than I would have imagined. The intensity of the training, the toll it takes on your body and mind and the time and commitment involved going through some of the training blocks have been intense. There were days when keeping myself fit for the races felt like an uphill battle, and believing I could recover and run again just 2 or 3 weeks later has been a continuous mental challenge.

In addition to your running and training, you’ve been fundraising for One in Four (thank you!). How have you found that?

Here’s something I never expected – being a first-time fundraiser is like learning to run all over again! Figuring out how to spread the word, share updates, and consistently communicate why I’m putting myself through this over a six-month journey – it’s been a steep learning curve.

It has been progressing well however, I’m not content to rest on my laurels. I’m determined to continue driving awareness and raising funds over the next month, as the final race approaches.

Recent news publications have highlighted that One in Four, an organization that heavily relies on public funding, urgently needs more support to assist those affected in the long term.  This is particularly important as historical incidents of abuse continue to come to light, emphasizing the ongoing nature of this issue and the constant need for support services

Donate today to help Adam reach his fundraising goal