The Sports4Kate Marathon, which is set to take place on Sunday 3 May, is an annual fundraising event aimed at supporting Kate Ferriggi, a young girl diagnosed with Tatton Brown Rahman Syndrome (TBRS), an extremely rare condition affecting approximately 1 in 7 million people worldwide.
Kate's condition is uniquely rare, and she currently requires intensive, personalised therapies, often abroad, which place a significant financial burden on her family. The main goal of the marathon is to raise €50,000 to help cover Kate's therapy costs.A secondary objective of the event is to raise awareness about TBRS and highlight the challenges faced by individuals with rare diseases.
The event is designed as a community-focused day featuring sports, entertainment, and educational activities that promote healthy living and social inclusion. Participants will be able to engage in a wide variety of sports, including football, volleyball, athletics, boxing, obstacle course races, and trampoline activities.
The marathon will also feature live entertainment from local singers and DJs, as well as appearances by athletes and sports personalities. Moreover, a dedicated kids' zone will offer activities such as face painting, inflatables, crafts, and mini sports sessions to encourage children to stay active.
A health and fitness expo will be held during the event, where local businesses and experts will provide consultations, product demonstrations, and wellness advice. Also, fundraising initiatives during the event will include raffle draws and auctions featuring prizes, memorabilia, and experiences donated by local businesses.
Organisers emphasise that the event is not only about fundraising but also about building community support and inspiring hope through Kate's story. The initiative also aims to promote long-term participation in sports and physical activity, particularly among children and individuals with special needs.
The 2026 edition plans to expand on previous years by introducing more activities, increasing sports engagement, and improving overall event organisation based on attendee feedback. Organisers are encouraging the public to participate, donate, or support the event by spreading awareness through social media and community networks.