
Mairead Rice fundraising for Air Ambulance NI in Moy Park Belfast City Marathon 2025
I Never Thought I’d Run a Marathon – But Here I Am & I'm Raising Funds For Air Ambulance NI Six years ago, I laced up my running shoes for the first time at a parkrun. Before that, I wasn’t a runner—or much of an exerciser at all! Now, after retiring, I’m facing my biggest challenge yet: my first-ever marathon, in Belfast on the 4th of May. To say I’m surprised is an understatement! It’s exciting and daunting—I’ve only run one half marathon before. But I want this to mean more than crossing the finish line. That’s why I’m raising funds for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, a charity providing life-saving care when every second counts. This vital service relies entirely on donations. None of us expect to need it, but when tragedy strikes, their team can be the difference between life and death. I hope no one I know and love ever needs it. Running 26.2 miles will be tough, but your support will keep me going. Any donation, big or small, truly helps. Thank you!