Putting in the miles for Nicholas

THE memory of a newborn baby who passed away at the Cliffs of Moher in 2006 is set to be honoured in March as part of events to mark the 25th anniversary of the twinning of Ennis with Phoenix, Arizona.

THE memory of a newborn baby who passed away at the Cliffs of Moher in 2006 is set to be honoured in March as part of events to mark the 25th anniversary of the twinning of Ennis with Phoenix, Arizona.

Baby Nicholas was born prematurely to American parents Kelly Stokes and Delia Garcia Stokes, passing away shortly after his birth. His parents were so touched with the support they received at the time of the tragedy that they have raised over $80,000 to supply emergency equipment and emergency response training for personel at the cliffs. The first-aid centre at the  tourist destination is called The Nicholas Room in their son’s honour.

On March 16 at 11am, runners, joggers and walkers will gather at the Cliffs of Moher for a five-miler to remember Nicholas and also to raise funds for the first-aid room and the neo-natal unit of the Mid-Western Regional Maternity Hospital. Among them will be Delia and Kelly, who will travel from their home in Phoenix.

Both Delia and Kelly will participate in the Ennis Phoenix Week celebrations before tackling the five-miler. Nicholas’ little sister, 17-month-old Maddie, along with organiser, Councillor Mary Howard, will officially start the race with the help of the St Mary’s Catholic High School Band.

According to Councillor Howard of the Ennis Phoenix Twinning Board, “We have organised a week-long series of events in order to mark the 25th anniversary of our relationship with Phoenix. One of the highlights of the week will be the Cliffs of Moher Five-Miler. We feel this is a very positive way of honouring the memory of baby Nicholas and the generosity of his parents.”

At least 500 runners, walkers and joggers are expected to attend the event. “Delia and Kelly would love to see lots of families take part, as well as joggers and walkers. On the day, there will be free parking at the Cliffs, as well as free admittance to the Cliffs for those participating and a discount at Lahinch Seaworld,” added Councillor Howard.

Phoenix Week will see a seven-day celebration in March of the special relationship Ennis has shared with Phoenix over the past 25 years. Over 100 people will travel from Phoenix for events including an official delegation led by Councilman Michael Johnson. To register for the five-miler go to www.runireland.com