How little did we think we could lose so much, how difficult to comprehend that so much could change forever in mere moments?
Yet, on a spring Sunday morning, the sweetness of life was wrested from us all.
It is still scarcely credible to grasp, to understand all that happened so fast.
Sunday for the runners is a day to catch up, with a relaxing wind-down run, often followed by a coffee and a snack in the Wetlands. How often, we have trod this path, and all else is forgotten.
But, Sunday 2nd March will linger long in our memories and in our broken hearts, as we try to comprehend our immense loss, The loss of the beautiful, Anila. The caring, considerate, thoughtful Anila. Always generous with her time, a training partner to all, ready to run at dawn or dusk, she’d always answer that call. Her kind words, humble & positive ways, an encouraging friend and motivator. Her selfless contribution extended beyond our running community, touching the hearts of many throughout Tralee. Her absence will leave a profound void that will be deeply felt forever.
Anila enjoyed her running, she was at the heart of what Born to Run was all about. And she was intensely competitive also. We all have our own special thoughts of what she meant to us, individually and as a group.
Completion of the Dingle half marathon and the 10 miler in Tralee were among her most recent races. Park run too where she was so proud to receive her 100 milestone , she smiled so brightly that morning it was a significant part of her life. With unwavering determination and grace, she tackled and conquered the Limerick Marathon in 2023—her first, yet sadly now, her last.
Her baking, her family, her interest in people, and her religion, … she wore them on her sleeve and it is easy to understand why she was beloved by all.
We struggle to find the words to fully convey her beautiful personality
To her dear husband, Fatmir, treasured sons, Orgito, and Ben, sister, Roza, niece, Bianka, and wider family, we extend out heartfelt and enduring sympathy.
We think too of her family at home and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
We think too, of Claire and Clara and pray for their recovery
God bless Anila, her family and friends
Beidh sí riamh againne, agus guímar solas na bhflaithis uirthi. (She will always be with us, and that in her final run, she will see heaven’s light)
Born to Run Tralee 