Take part in the Crate Escape in Ballymena and help raise funds for AWARE NI, the depression charity for Northern Ireland.

Men across the local community are being encouraged to lace up their running shoes, grab a beer crate and take part in the Crate Escape – a unique two-mile, two-man fun run in aid of AWARE NI. AWARE NI is the depression charity for Northern Ireland, providing support, education and information for people living with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.

The event will take place on Friday 28 August from 6.30pm at Ballymena Rugby Club. Participants will tackle a two-mile course while carrying a beer crate, combining fitness, fun and plenty of laughs, all while raising awareness and funds for mental health. Although light-hearted in nature, the event carries a serious message.

The men-only event has been created to encourage men to open up about their mental health. Too often, men either run away from the subject or find it easier to talk side by side rather than face to face. The Crate Escape aims to create a relaxed, supportive environment where conversations can happen naturally while sharing an enjoyable experience.

The organisers would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who has helped make the event possible. Special thanks go to Ballymena Running Club for their professional expertise and guidance throughout the planning process, and to Ballymena Rugby Club for going above and beyond to ensure everything is in place for the evening.

A special thanks also goes to Jim Fitzpatrick – The Sober Irish, who is generously supplying non-alcoholic beer for participants. The Sober Irish is a Belfast-born alcohol-free drinks brand and community built on connection, conversation and celebrating life fully present.

If you enjoy a sense of the ridiculous, a bit of friendly competition and plenty of great craic, sign up for what promises to be a memorable evening while supporting mental health in Northern Ireland.

Register for Crate Escape

Click here to register online: https://www.sientries.co.uk/event/crate-escape-2026?elid=Y

For more information, contact:

• Kevin McCaughan: kevinmccaughan147@gmail.com
• Matthew Milliken: matthew.milliken@yahoo.ie