'Buddy up and Be Safe’ event in Tullamore is a big success
A 'Buddy up and Be Safe' event organised by international boxer Gráinne Walsh last weekend in Tullamore has raised over €1,000 for Offaly Domestic Violence Support Services (ODVSS).
The event, held in the town park in memory of the late Ashling Murphy, was all about creating a safe space for people to come together to enjoy a free fitness class and boxing skills.
“In memory of Ashling Murphy, I would like to start a conversation today around creating a safe space for people to come together, socialise and exercise,” Gráinne said at the well attended event on Saturday week last.
“While I am passionate about boxing, I realise that not everyone feels the same, so whether you want to walk a couple of kilometres around the town park and then use the exercise machines in the park, go for a jog, do a weekly fitness session on Saturday mornings or meet up for a short walk, followed by coffee and a chat – it is entirely up to you,” added the local boxer.
“All I want to do is get the conversation going and ensure that no person feels isolated and alone, which then results in them deciding not to take some exercise.
“I am a big advocate of the 'buddy up' system, and I would love if people could get in touch with me at: buddyup231@gmail.com and let me know what your thoughts are, and we can progress from there,” the Tullamore boxer, who won a bronze medal at the European Games back in 2019 added.
Many people helped make the event happen, and she expressed particular gratitude to Cllr Tony McCormack and Offaly County Council, Siobhán and Ellen Godley and friends for the traditional music session, Jenny’s Kitchen for the refreshments afterwards, Darren Cahill in The Music Shop for the sound system, Brian Dolan for the bottled water and Spartacus Boxing Club coaches for helping with the boxing/fitness session.
A collection on the day for ODVSS raised over €1,000, and she thanked everyone who donated so generously.