Naas celebrates over €17,000 raised for ARC Cancer Support Services

An incredible €17,039.60 was raised for ARC Cancer Support Services following a hugely successful 12-Hour Fitathon held in Poplar Square, Naas, on Saturday, July 25 2026.

The event, organised by Mick Mulcahy and Maeve Aldridge of Mick Mulcahy Fitness, was held in memory of their dear friend Gwendolyn Marks, who passed away in September 2025.

On Saturday evening, November 7, supporters, participants, sponsors, family and friends came together at Fletcher's Bar in Naas for the official charity cheque presentation and to celebrate an extraordinary community achievement.

The cheque for €17,039.60 was officially presented to Tracy Power, Fundraising Manager of ARC Cancer Support Services, marking the culmination of months of planning, fundraising and tremendous community generosity.

What began with an ambitious fundraising target of €6,000 grew into something far beyond expectations, with the final total reaching an outstanding €17,039.60.

The Fitathon saw Poplar Square transformed into a hive of activity, with 12 hours of fitness classes, entertainment, fundraising and community spirit. People of all ages and fitness levels came together throughout the day, united by a common goal of supporting a charity that provides invaluable services to people affected by cancer and their families.

The event was made possible through the generosity of local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, fitness participants and the wider community, who gave their time, energy and support so willingly.

Speaking about the achievement, organisers Mick and Maeve said: "When we first started planning the Fitathon, we could never have imagined the incredible response we would receive. To raise over €17,000 for ARC Cancer Support Services is something we are immensely proud of, but what makes it truly special is the number of people who came together to make it happen.

“This was never just about raising money. It was about remembering Gwendolyn, celebrating her life and doing something positive in her memory.

“From the people who took part in classes to those who donated prizes, sponsored the event, volunteered their time or simply stopped by to offer encouragement, every single person played a part in this success.

“We are genuinely overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to us, and we cannot thank everyone enough."

Special recognition goes to the event's main sponsors, Healy's Tyres & Service Centre, Naas, Saggart Tyre Centre and Hire Station, whose generous support helped make the day possible.

The organisers also extended their heartfelt thanks to the many local businesses who donated raffle prizes, the volunteers and entertainers who gave their time, and everyone who helped behind the scenes.

The cheque presentation evening at Fletcher's Bar was an opportunity not only to formally hand over the funds to Tracy Power on behalf of ARC Cancer Support Services, but also to remember Gwendolyn and recognise the extraordinary generosity and community spirit that made the Fitathon such a success.

The Mick Mulcahy Fitness 12-Hour Fitathon will be remembered not only for the incredible €17,039.60 raised, but for the generosity, friendship, remembrance and community spirit that made it possible.