By Ryan Sands
A 100-MILE ‘Run for Palestine’ fundraiser will take place in Newcastle this weekend. The endurance challenge – in aid of the Union of Palestinian Women’s Committees (UPWC) – will be undertaken by Castlewellan’s Gerard McAnulty and Cahir Clancy over a 48-hour period on Newcastle Promenade.
UPWC is a grassroots organisation that, in Gaza, provides essential support to women and families, including aid, psychosocial support, and advocacy for human rights.
As part of the challenge, the two runners will:
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Remain silent (to highlight those whose voices are not being heard)
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Abstain from food (to reflect the reality of food scarcity)
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Run 50 miles per day (equivalent to twice the length of Gaza)
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Sleep outside (to mirror the conditions many in Gaza currently face)
A statement on the event said its purpose is to “highlight, in a small symbolic way, the physical and emotional hardship experienced by civilians in Gaza – particularly women and children.” It also stated that, by placing themselves under controlled discomfort, the participants “hope to raise awareness of the daily reality faced by those living in conflict-affected areas with limited access to food, safety, and shelter.”
Speaking ahead of the weekend run, Gerard stated:
“This isn’t a political gesture – it’s a human one. You don’t need to take a side to understand that people are suffering and that families are living in unimaginable conditions. We wanted to do something physical, visible, and direct. By taking on this challenge, we hope to draw attention to the situation in a respectful and focused way – and ensure funds go to an organisation making a real difference on the ground. We’re grateful for any support – whether that’s spreading the word, donating, or simply learning more about the work of UPWC.”
Cahir added:
“I’ve always believed that physical endurance can be a vehicle for something more meaningful. This challenge isn’t about performance – it’s about using discomfort as a way to connect with people we’ll never meet, but whose lives matter. I’m a parent myself, and I can’t ignore the suffering of children and families. This is just a small way to show solidarity and hopefully contribute to practical support.”
The ‘Run for Palestine’ gets under way at 3.30pm on Friday.
Visit www.paypal.com/pools/c/9gJk8jrVrm to make a donation.
Visit upwc.org.ps for more information on UPWC.
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