This June Bank Holiday, Aidlink is organising something special. For the first time ever, we will be fielding a team at the 2019 Uganda Marathon!
This event truly caters for all. Whether you’re a regular marathon runner looking for a challenge, a complete beginner in search of an adventure or someone with a desire to help marginalised and vulnerable communities in Africa, Team Aidlink has something for you.
As Uganda’s most important marathon, an estimated 3,000 people from around the world will take part in this exciting event. The marathon offers a range of different race lengths – from 10km to the full and half marathon distances – which can be taken at a walking, jogging or running pace in order to ensure that participants can partake at their own level. If that doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, the marathon is always on the lookout for those who would like to volunteer or simply spectate, and Team Aidlink will cater to your needs!
The race will take you through the spectacular Ugandan countryside, traversing rural villages and towns and providing you with beautiful views of the famed Lake Victoria. There will be water stations and medical support throughout the route to keep all participants hydrated.
This is a unique opportunity to explore Uganda and experience its culture while also participating in what has been hailed as being one of the best marathons in the world. Further still, your fundraising support will help better the lives of some of the poorest and most marginalised communities in Africa.
As the Uganda Marathon takes place in Masaka, Southern Uganda, where Aidlink has worked for the past 15 years, participants will have the opportunity to visit some of our partner organisations and programmes and witness the impact of Aidlink’s work and your fundraising first hand!
The Trip
Aidlink is providing two tailored packages to participate in this year’s Uganda Marathon, allowing participants to join us in Uganda for either one week or four days. Travel itineraries for both package options are below:
Fundraising Target
7 days: €1,600
(In-country costs: €600-including race entry; Funds to Aidlink Programmes: €1,000)
4 days: €1,500
(In-country costs: €500-including race entry; Funds to Aidlink Programmes: €1,000)
As part of Team Aidlink you are asked to fundraise a minimum target, with €1,000 of the funds raised going directly towards supporting the work of Aidlink and its partner organisations. The remaining amount will cover the costs of the trip as outlined below.
What is included?
- Accommodation
- 3 meals per day
- Transport to and from the airport, programme visits and the Uganda Marathon
- Race entry (also subsidies 15 Uganda junior runners to participate)
- Water stations and medical support during race
- Celebratory barbecue after the race.
- Pre-race package, including Aidlink t-shirt, pre-departure and fundraising support
- A stop off at the Equator
- Insurance
What is not included?
- Flights (approximately €500 for the time of year in question from Dublin if booked in advance- we will supply a list of suitable airlines and routes)
- Incidentals (Alcoholic and soft drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
To become a member of Team Aidlink at the Uganda Marathon, please contact Anne, Tom or Aisling at info@aidlink.ie or call 01-4736488.
Why not organise a coffee morning, a table quiz, bag-packing or another activity to meet your target? While sometimes daunting, fundraising is a fun way to connect with friends and family. Once you have registered, Aidlink will be available for any support and advice you may need.
Places are limited and therefore expressions of interest are recommended sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment.
Register by Friday 8th March 2019 to secure your place.
Deposit of €100 will be required by Friday 15th March 2019.
The remaining balance of the fundraising target will be due by Wednesday 1st May 2019.