Rag week funds and frolics for student bodies

STUDENTS are turning away from drink and using their feet to raise cash for charity in Galway this week.

Leading the way yesterday was National University of Ireland Galway students’ union president Tony McDonnell. He took on no less an opponent than university president Dr Iognáid Ó Muirchéartaigh in a race with a difference.

Both men took to scooters for the lunchtime Presidents Race on the city campus at lunchtime.

A heavy downpour meant the turnout was reduced to about 100 onlookers at the university’s tennis courts. But the rain failed to deter the competitors and they put in their best efforts on the testing course in spite of the conditions.

Spectators thought Dr Ó Muircheartaigh was on course for victory in what was a very physical race, but the students union leader came back to pip him at the post in a time of 50 seconds.

Earlier, two female staff members showed the men how it should be done, passing the finish line in quicker times. Dean of Science Dr Pat Morgan fended off vice-president for student services Mary O’Riordan in another closely-fought contest.

The event was one of many aimed at raising more than €10,000 as part of the college’s Rag Week.

Another student, Edel Barry, undertook the Barna Scooter Challenge, scooting her way five miles from college to Barna and back again. She was raising money for the Concern Nepal Challenge 2004, but her own adventure was made all the more gruelling by heavy spring showers.

The students are directing the focus away from alcohol-related events this year because of the bad name given to Rag Week by troublemakers in recent years.

While some events are taking place in the city’s hostelries, the focus is on enjoying a bit of fun and raising money for local good causes.

“We’d advise that students drink in moderation, take care of themselves and each other, and where possible, designate a friend to mind the group,” said students union welfare officer Áine Kelly.

Other events include the Back to School Sports Day, where tug-of-war, egg and spoon racing, three-legged races and sack races will be among the main attractions.