Rugby Star Joe McCarthy Launches Down Syndrome Ireland’s Purple Run

Irish rugby international Joe McCarthy has joined forces with his brother Andrew and members of Down Syndrome Ireland to launch the 2026 Purple Run, calling on people across Ireland to lace up their runners this October for a great cause.

Taking place throughout Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the Purple Run is a flexible, month-long virtual fitness challenge. Participants are challenged to walk, jog or run 42km (26.2 miles) across the 31 days of October, at their own pace.

Whether you take part on your own, with friends and family, as a school or with colleagues, the Purple Run is all about getting active, connecting with others and supporting people with Down syndrome.

Every euro raised through the Purple Run will directly support Down Syndrome Ireland’s core services nationwide, helping people with Down syndrome reach their potential and access support at every stage of life – from early intervention and inclusive education to employment opportunities and future planning.

Picture of adults and adults with Down syndrome in a park with Rugby star Joe McCarthy in Purple t-shirts — Kathrina Bray (left) with Andrew McCarthy, Joe McCarthy, Liam Foley, Elisha Gallagher, Fintan Bray.
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Joe McCarthy, Leinster and Ireland rugby player, said:

“I’m always proud to stand alongside Andrew and support Down Syndrome Ireland. The work they do to empower people with Down syndrome across the country is incredible. The Purple Run isn’t about setting record pace, it’s about community, inclusion, and getting active together.”

Andrew McCarthy added:

“I’m delighted to launch the Purple Run with Joe! Staying active and being part of a team is so important to me. Getting involved is a fantastic way for families, friends, and colleagues to get out in the fresh air and make a big difference for people with Down syndrome.”

Joe McCarthy and his brother Andrew in Purple t-shirts — Joe McCarthy and his brother Andrew are joining Down Syndrome Ireland for the Purple Run this October.
PIC. ROBBIE REYNOLDS

Joing Joe and Andrew as ambassadors are Fintan and his sister Kathrina; Elisha; Liam; Libb and her baby Ben.

Fintan said:

“For everyone doing the Purple Run, if you are new to running, you can walk, jog and push the baby in the buggy. It’s a different way to spend time with your friends and family, do it for you! If you are new at it, I wish you the very best of luck!”

Everyone who takes part will receive an exclusive, limited-edition Purple Run running top, a calendar to track their progress and access to the Purple Run community Facebook page.

You can take part in the Purple Run as an individual, group, school or workplace. Simply sign up, get moving and complete your 42km throughout October at your own pace.

Together, we can make every kilometre count and help support people with Down syndrome and their families across Ireland.

Sign up today at Purplerun.ie