Knockevin School, a controlled school in County Down supporting pupils with severe, profound, and multiple learning difficulties, are gearing up for an incredible challenge to support both Air Ambulance Northern Ireland and their own school community.
Across Knockevin School’s sites in Downpatrick, Dundrum, and Castlewellan, 35 dedicated staff members will participate in this year’s Moy Park Belfast City Marathon, taking on the relay, 8-mile walk, and full marathon on Sunday 4th May. Their goal is to raise essential funds that will provide much-needed support for both causes.
Supporting Air Ambulance NI is a cause close to their hearts. After witnessing first-hand the critical care provided by the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) team during an incident at one of the school’s sites, staff were determined to give back. Their fundraising team, fittingly named ‘Miles & Smiles,’ is committed to raising vital funds to support both future air ambulance patients and their own pupils.
Adam Smith, Vice Principal of Knockevin School, highlighted the importance of their fundraising efforts:
“We hope that by taking on this challenge as a united school community, we can give back to Air Ambulance NI for the critical care they provide—just as they did for us. Every donation fuels both our training journey and our efforts on the big day. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us so far.”
Amy, Area Fundraising Manager for Air Ambulance NI, recently visited Knockevin’s very own Root’s Café at their Senior School site in Castlewellan to meet some of the staff and pupils involved. Speaking about their initiative, she said:
“It’s truly moving to see the Knockevin School community rally behind Air Ambulance NI after their own experience with our service. Their commitment to fundraising through the Moy Park Belfast City Marathon is inspiring, and every penny raised ensures we can continue responding to those in critical need across Northern Ireland. We will be cheering them on with every step on the day.
You can help the Knockevin ‘Miles & Smiles’ team reach their goal by donating at www.gofundme.com/f/team-knockevin-miles-and-smiles-belfast-marathon-challenge. Every contribution makes a real difference!
As the designated charity partner for Moy Park Belfast City Marathon, Air Ambulance NI want to remind people that spaces are still available for the 8-mile walk on Sunday 4th May.
Amy continued: ‘On average, two people need the air ambulance every day. When the worst happens, our service brings hospital-level care directly to patients at the scene, anywhere in Northern Ireland, with the aim of saving lives, brains, and limbs. The charity needs to raise £2.5 million annually to sustain this vital service, and every call depends on public fundraising.
Whether you’re an avid walker or simply looking for a new challenge, the 8-mile walk promises to be a memorable experience for participants of all fitness levels. Consider signing up and start your training for an incredible journey on 4th May.’
Register for the 8-mile walk at belfastcitymarathon.com, tick the box to support Air Ambulance NI, and their team will be in touch with a digital fundraising pack. Participants will also receive an exclusive invitation to visit the helicopter airbase and see first-hand the life-saving service they are supporting.