The head of the depression charity for Northern Ireland is among the hundreds preparing to participate in Storming the Castle, the 10K road race in Carrickfergus later this month.
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Seapark Athletic Club's Storming the Castle is back on Sunday, 21 August, with AWARE as its chosen charity partner.
AWARE's CEO Karen Collins is undertaking the 10K race to raise awareness and funds for local mental health services.
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"I enjoy running a few times a week. I initially took up running about five years ago as a personal challenge as I wanted to run a 5K," Karen said.
"We all know how good exercise is for our physical and mental health, and I can honestly say it helps me get some time out and away from the busyness and stress.
"It gives me great headspace to relax. I've got a bit competitive with myself and am always trying to run further or faster now!"
She added: "We're delighted to have been chosen as Storming the Castle's beneficiary charity. Running is a fantastic way to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
"With the impact of the pandemic and the current cost of living crisis, more and more people are experiencing symptoms of poor mental health.
"This event is a brilliant way to promote the link between running and improved mental well-being whilst raising vital funds and awareness of the prevalence of mental illness and the importance of quashing the stigma."
Seapark's race director, Andy Smyth, added: "Northern Ireland has the highest prevalence of mental illness in the UK.
"With the pandemic exacerbating this, the race committee decided to appoint local depression charity AWARE as the partner to raise awareness of mental health services whilst demonstrating the positive impact of running on mental health.
"Registration closes on Sunday 7 August so we encourage anyone interested to sign up as soon as possible!"
Event partner Mid and East Antrim Borough Council will also be managing a children's fun run, Chase the Knight, for 4-9-year-olds and a junior race for 10-14 year-olds ahead of the leading 10K event.
Post-races, participants, friends and family will also have the opportunity to enjoy family fun entertainment in Shaftesbury Park from 2pm, thanks to the support of local sponsor, Ownies Bar and Bistro.
To support Karen’s challenge, please visit: https://aware.enthuse.com/pf/karen-collins-stc
Tickets are £17 (affiliated) and £19 (non-affiliated) - on the day registration £20 (subject to availability). To book your place and for full details of the event please visit www.seaparkac.com.
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