Words by: Killian Andersen
The Why
As I stand back now, looking at what we’ve just achieved with Trasna 2025, I’m still in awe of the incredible power of people coming together for something bigger than themselves. Trasna 2025 wasn’t just a run. It wasn’t just 232km from the Spanish Arch in Galway to Poolbeg Lighthouse in Dublin. It was a living, breathing example of what can happen when a community decides to show up for each other, and for those who are struggling in silence.
Alongside my fellow organiser, Aby King, we had a simple but powerful vision: to create something that mirrored the reality of mental health struggles. Something that reminded us all that life isn’t a solo race, but a team effort. That sometimes the road is long, dark, and exhausting – but with the right support, the right people beside us, we can get through it.
The How
This year, seven teams of five runners took on the challenge. Each team had one support vehicle (most opting for rented campervans) and a shared goal: make it from coast to coast, running day and night, until they reached Dublin. In total, we covered 232km. The average team finished in just under 24 hours.
The format of the race was as unique as it was demanding. It was rolling, meaning each team had the freedom to decide how they broke down the distance. Some runners thrived on 5km bursts, others dug deep for 20–25km stretches. Through the night, safety and solidarity were paramount. Each runner was accompanied by a cyclist, pedalling alongside in the dark, ready with lights, words of encouragement, and sometimes just quiet company.
It was gruelling. It was emotional. It was also one of the most powerful displays of teamwork I’ve ever witnessed.
And here’s the thing – Trasna 2025 wasn’t just about running. It was about reflecting the struggles of mental health. For so many people, life can feel like a relentless journey from darkness into light. The moments of exhaustion, the stretches that feel never-ending, the times when you need someone cycling alongside you, just to make sure you keep moving forward. Those moments were everywhere on the road from Galway to Dublin.
And yet, what stood out most wasn’t the distance or the time. It was the way everyone looked after each other. Between every handover point, teams checked in on each other. People swapped supplies, shared food, and encouraged strangers. If someone was struggling, there was always someone there to support them, just as we should be in life.
The Wow
Together, we raised nearly €30,000 for Grow Mental Health. These funds will go directly toward supporting people across the country who are struggling with their mental health. As SÃle from Grow Mental Health said at the finish line:
“The money you have raised through this event will be used to save the lives of people around the country.”
Hearing those words, with the Poolbeg Lighthouse in sight and the tired but elated faces of the runners around me, made every kilometre worth it.
Organising Trasna 2025 wasn’t without its challenges. From planning logistics, coordinating teams, arranging safety measures, and making sure we could support runners around the clock, there were countless moving parts. There were moments when it felt overwhelming. But, just like the run itself, we had a community that stepped in when things got tough. Sponsors, volunteers, family, and friends all contributed, proving once again that no great challenge is conquered alone.
The metaphor couldn’t have been clearer. Mental health recovery isn’t about sprinting through the hard parts. It’s about pacing yourself, leaning on others, and showing up consistently. It’s about being surrounded by people who remind you to keep going, even when the night feels endless.
As one of the organisers, what I will remember most is the feeling of connection. At 3 a.m., as runners navigated dark country roads, you could feel the weight of what we were doing. This wasn’t just a physical test – it was a message to anyone struggling: You are not alone. We will stay with you through the night.
And when dawn broke over the horizon and teams neared Dublin, the mood shifted. The exhaustion was still there, but it was laced with a deep sense of pride and togetherness. Step by step, we approached the Poolbeg Lighthouse – the symbol of hope and safety after a long, hard journey.
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Crossing that finish line was emotional for everyone. Some cried, some laughed, some hugged their teammates and just stood still, letting it all sink in. And though the event was over, its meaning will continue. The nearly €30,000 raised will go directly toward services that change and save lives. But perhaps just as important, Trasna 2025 reminded everyone involved of the value of community, support, and compassion.
In life, as in this event, there will be stretches that feel impossible. There will be nights that feel too long. There will be moments when the weight feels too heavy to carry alone. But with the right people beside you, anything can be done.
To everyone who ran, cycled, volunteered, donated, or supported us in any way — thank you. Your effort, your kindness, and your belief in this cause have made a tangible difference.
Trasna 2025 was more than a run. It was proof that we are stronger together, and that when we show up for each other, we can turn darkness into light – one kilometre, one conversation, one act of kindness at a time.
