Colony Park Juniors 24 hour challenge success
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Colony Park Juniors have risen to the challenge which was set down for them by Inverurie Locos.
The team set out to become the latest participants in the 24 hour running challenge, raising funds for their chosen charity the Garioch Heritage Cente.
In order to raise funds for the Centre, each player and member of management team had to run for an hour over a 24 hour period.
Each slot was drawn and given to a separate team member and at the end of the 24 hour period, distances were totalled up.
The run took place in all weathers, from driving winds and heavy rain on Friday to brilliant sunshine on Saturday morning, but the runners showed that they could cope with everything that was thrown at them.
The geographical area for runners was diverse, with Coach Barry Marwick started the proceedings by running his hour in Rotterdam, David Clark ran in Insch, and Assistant Manager Steven Morrison concluded the run in Aberdeen.
Andy Mitchell ran for 90 minutes, and Connor Kiloh, Conor Strachan and Club Physio Katie Rough all did a double session, running for two hours each.
It was also heartening to see Pete Douglas and Bryce Dawson, both recent leg break victims, and Jack Strachan and Lee Cooper, both recovering from major knee surgery all making a contribution to the team effort.
The distance covered in the 24hrs was 290k (180.2 miles),
Colony Park Juniors manager Kevin Bonarius commented of his teams efforts:
“The team smashed the challenge from midday Friday to midday Saturday with 290km being covered during that time.
“A number of players and staff covered more than their one hour needed to ensure we filled the 24 hours.
"The team absolutely loved it, they pulled together as a group over the 24 hours, the team spirit and support made me proud to be the team manager.”
He continued: “I am immensely proud after seeing such an incredible team effort over the weekend to support a local cause in memory of Jack Hendry, a club stalwart and a man who is going to be a huge miss to all of us at Colony Park Juniors FC.
“The spirit within the team throughout the 24hours was incredible.
“I must mention the group of guys who did the graveyard shifts from 12am – 6am in the early hours of Saturday morning and those who did over an hour for the cause Andy Mitchell, Connor Killoh, Conor Strachan and Katie Rough.
“They all went the extra mile for our challenge.
"I also want to thank every person who has donated to support the Garioch Heritage Centre.
"Our fundraising target was passed before we even started our 24 hours and that alone was extra motivation for the team.
“Lockdown has been a big challenge for us all and we really do hope everyone is keeping fit and healthy.
"We are looking to get back on the field and hope to see you all at Colony Park again soon cheering the team on.”
The team set an original target of £500 and the total has now surpassed £3300 and is still rising.
The amount of money donated by Supporters and friends of the club has been incredible.
As Kevin concluded: "Bearing in mind that our friends and neighbours Inverurie Locos FC did the same last weekend, this is an incredible amount raised, and it reinforces the belief that the football teams in Inverurie are more than just teams, they are an integral part of the Community."
Colony Park Juniors have now nominated Rothie Rovers, Culter FC and Colony Park Amateurs to take on the 24 hour challenge.
