Grant Thornton runway run a ‘runaway’ success

Northern Ireland businesses take off along the runway at George Best Belfast City Airport for the Grant Thornton Runway Run.

Over 500 runners, a record number, took to the tarmac last night (Thursday 23rd June) to compete in the second ever Grant Thornton Runway Run at George Best Belfast City Airport.

The 5k race featured teams of four from large and small, businesses and organisations from both the private and public sectors.

The event, which promotes teamwork through a unique networking event, also raised funds for this year’s chosen charity, the Mary Peters Trust.

Richard Gillan, Managing Partner of Grant Thornton Northern Ireland said:

“Here at Grant Thornton we strive to do things differently. We feel strongly about developing relationships within business and see this as a wonderful opportunity for local businesses to network with each other. We are delighted with the response to the event again this year.

“Our thanks to George Best Belfast City Airport and Athletics NI for their support in organising the event and of course to Dame Mary for starting the race.

“Congratulations to this year’s winners; Danske Bank in the mixed category, Hireco in the female category and John McKee Solictors in the male category; and to the fastest male David Conliffe from the Department of the Economy and fastest female Una McConnell from the Department of Communities. Indeed, congratulations to all those who participated and I look forward to seeing you again next year!”

Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir MLA, who took part in the race for the first time said:

“With over 500 participants the Grant Thornton Runway Run is going from strength to strength, it’s hard to believe this is only the event’s second year. Running 5k is an achievement for any runner but doing it at night on a runway makes it a very unique occasion. I want to thank the organisers for inviting me to take part.”

Dame Mary Peters CH, DBE, said:

“We were delighted that Grant Thornton chose the Trust as its charity partner for this event, and extend our thanks to all those who entered and donated money.

“The Mary Peters Trust is committed to developing the future sportsmen and women of Northern Ireland, allowing them to reach their sporting goals. This event was a fantastic opportunity to encourage not only fitness and healthy competition, but networking and team building.”