Collette O’Hagan’s amazing marathon career was celebrated in the new Dundalk Credit Union premises on Clanbrassil Street last Saturday morning. The inspiring 75 year old grandmother has completed a mind boggling 997 marathons and will run her 1000th next month where it all started at the Dublin City Marathon.
Collette ‘s 997 medals were on show in the former Heuston’s premises as well wishers and passers by dropped in to have a look at the fantastic display of medals and trophies Collette has won since running in her very first marathon which was the Dublin City marathon in 1990.
The exhibition was hosted by Dundalk Credit Union with the exhibition also acting as a coffee morning in aid of the North Louth Hospice and Feileacain. Wellwishers came in their droves to wish Collette well as she readies herself for three marathons over the next month culminating in the big one on Sunday 27th October. According to Collette she runs every single day of her life and actually enjoys the struggle and pain that comes with running a marathon.
“I absolutely love it. I love pushing myself and believe it or not I love the struggle and the pain that comes with a marathon. I get more pleasure out of finishing a marathon where I don’t feel I am running well but am able to push through than one where I am feeling ok throughout the race. It’s a battle you have with yourself where your body is telling you to stop but you have to be strong and keep on going. I only actually took up running in my 40’s. My husband Larry used to run a bit and I went out with him one day and caught the bug. 997 marathons later I am here getting ready to take part in the big 1000th one next month which is amazing to me,” stated Collette.
“When I got to around 900 I started focusing on making 1000 and when I reach 1000 I have no plans to stop. I love it too much. I run with the North East Runners who are a great group to run with and I was delighted when I was asked to come here today with all of my medals. I didn’t actually think anybody would come out to look at my medals but I am humbled that so many have come out to wish me well and to support my fundraiser, which will raise funds for the North Louth Hospice and Feileacain. Thank you to everybody for coming out and to David in Dundalk Credit Union for putting this event on,” stated Collette.
Speaking about the event Dundalk Credit Union’s Head of Marketing and Communications, David Donnelly praised Collette for all she has achieved down through the years.”
“Collette is an absolute inspiration and we are proud to have her as a Brand Ambassador for Dundalk Credit Union. She has been a member of the credit union for over 50 years and would have used our services to help fund her trips overseas where she has competed in various marathons. As our ambassador she has gone around to local schools giving inspirational talks to our local schoolkids and she is just the essence of what community spirit is all about. She is an inspiration to us all and she really showcases what Dundalk Credit Union is all about. We love to shine a light on all that is good in our wonderful town and Colette is one of the finest examples of that,” stated David.
