Inspiring Local Health Hero: Anne Brady’s Mission to Keep Our Community Running and Well

Author: Claire Kiernan Campbell

AILM & OAK WELLNESS

June 9th 2026

Long Term sustainable health relies heavily on local champions who dedicate their time to fostering well-being within their own communities. Every parish is home to these unsung heroes who lead by example, proving that physical fitness can coexist with a demanding lifestyle.

A perfect embodiment of this spirit is Anne Brady from Killoe in Longford. A busy wife & mother of three who balances a full-time job with an extraordinary passion for running. Not only has Anne consistently shattered her own boundaries by improving her personal best marathon times, but she also directly reinvests that energetic drive back into her neighborhood. She volunteers for free every Monday evening. She trains & motivates a local community group, transforming her personal dedication into collective inspiration and helping ordinary people build sustainable, healthy habits in their own life.

We asked Anne for advice for anyone thinking of starting running or has a certain race on their bucket race:

What inspired you to start running Anne?

I got involved in running in 2008 when I saw a sign in the paper that Longford Athletics club was looking for members. I decided to join and never looked back. I completed my first marathon in 2011 only three years later.

Were you always Athletic growing up?

I was never into running or athletics growing up.

What events have you completed since?

I completed my 16th Marathon in April. (Westport). I have completed 9 Full Dublin Marathons, 4 Longford Marathons, 1 Limerick Marathon, 1 Connemara Marathon (plenty of hills there) and Westport Marathon. I have a box full of medals from 5K, 10K, 10miles, Half Marathons and ¾ Marathons. 

I love running and the buzz of the races, no matter how fast or slow I am. I don't consider them as races, every race you run is a privilege. Its hard to keep those niggles away so I try a bit of strength work in the gym three times a week.

What motivates you Anne to train for races and go to the gym?

Its part of my routine. I get up in the morning and go for a run or go to the gym before the kids get up. Just good habits. For me, I love the way it makes me feel afterwards. Some mornings I don't feel like getting up because somedays you are just wrecked but If I don't get up I feel terrible so now its just easier to get up. There is no feeling like the end of a race you have been training for. The finishing up, the buzz, the cup of tea and chat with fellow runners.

How do you manage working fulltime, running, gyming and been a brilliant mother & wife?

I simply pencil it in like an appointment that I have to attend. Whether its 6am and back by 7am for 4 - 5 mile run or longer runs at weekend. Mapping in an hour somewhere there is gap. Going early is key and having it done for the day.

What was your inspiration for setting up the Monday running club?

The Killoe Minor GAA club had asked me to help out with the training for the couch to 5km to motivate more people to take part and give people the confident to take part in the Killoe 5km. There were 8 or 9 coming every week. They asked me to keep it going and a few more have joined. So if anyone is thinking of trying out running, we meet in Cullyfad pitch on a Monday evening at 7pm (adults only) . Its free. Its 45 minutes to an hour. Its good to catch up and chat. Men and women are welcome.

Would you recommend being part of a running group or club?

Yes, absolutely. With Longford Athletics we meet on a Tuesday evening and complete a speed session. We train on a Thursday for a 10km run and on Saturday mornings as well. I try to complete a long run on a Saturday morning especially when I am training for a marathon. I feel great after a run . I feel like I can take anything on.

Going to races we go to so many different places and carpool. Its always loads of fun. We were in Trim at a 10 mile run lately and afterwards we met in Kinnegad for a chat afterwards. The social end of it, being part of a group is great. I'd really recommend that and meet loads of new friends. Even going to the gym and being part of a fitness class its equally as good.

Any advice on not getting injured?

Drink lots of water, eat well, lots of protein, try to stick to healthy lifestyle and eating regime. Fuelling is very important. Especially the day before a big run, more protein and carbohydrates.

Look after your body, look after your recovery. Complete strength training, if possible. Once or twice a week. If you don't want to go to the gym there are tonnes of free strength training online. Even 10 or 15 minute training videos. You can complete them at home. Foam rolling is another top tip. I use a sliotar and roll out the muscles on my legs regularly. I go for regular rub outs.

Any recommendation on what to wear or what equipment you need when running?

It is personal really. I like running in shorts. I like Helen Steele's running gear. I wear her shorts. They are from Dunnes Stores. She has pockets either side or there is a new one with a zipped pocket on the side for your longer runs if you're bringing a gel with you or a few jellies. Nike sports bras you can't fault them. . They last a long time. Socks I like the long socks and you can get them them anywhere. Ear phones I have an old MP3 player and I like listening to the radio. I love my Garmin watch if you want to clock miles. It can track cycling too. Runner wise, there are so many options out there from carbon fibre plate to a good stability runner. I would recommend going to the run hub in Dublin. They complete a gait analysis. The runner is matched to your foot and stride. I love the Hoka runners, the Asics, the Nikes for racing. There is plenty out there You just have to find a runner that suits you. Women's Mizuno Wave Rider 29 is a good runner if you are starting out. They are brilliant for long runs.

If someone has a target of completing a race whether a 5km, 10km, half marathon or full marathon on their bucket list what is your advice Anne?

In my opinion anyone can take up running. I started an adult running group in Cullyfad (N39T9Y8) on a Monday evening at 7pm and if you feel like it's something you would like to try you are welcome. My number is 086-6038961,

if you have any questions.

If you're considering signing up to a 5km, the parkruns on a Saturday more are a great place to start. If you're thinking of pushing yourself to a longer distance my advice would be to just go for it and book it. You won't regret it. Getting that medal at the end is a great feeling

All races are achievable and I would definitely encourage people to sign up. There is training you have to do and completing the longer miles before a half marathon or a full marathon can be hard and time consuming but its very achievable. Get your long runs done before hand and then go for it.

A Final Word of Gratitude

In conclusion, Anne Brady truly embodies the spirit of a local health hero, selflessly giving her time to ensure the enjoyment and physical well-being of people around her. Dedicating free hours to uplift others while managing a packed personal schedule is an extraordinary thing to do, and we are incredibly lucky to have Anne in our local parish. Inspired by her boundless energy and invaluable advice, I have officially taken the leap and booked my very first marathon. We would like to extend our deepest thanks to Anne. It proves with a bit of support & encouragement, we can all reach our personal bests & goals.