Hundreds of youngsters took to the track last night in a drive to stay fit and active — as well as to raise money for charity.

The Mid-Atlantic Athletic Club held its annual Junior Dash at Dark event at the Flora Duffy stadium.

However, this year’s event was tinged with sadness. The evening was held in memory of Eoghan Homan, a club member and talented athlete who died in February from a rare cancer at the age of 16.

Rose-Anna Hoey, the race co-director, had earlier described Eoghan as a dedicated athlete who was “a much treasured and admired member of our club”.

Funds raised from concessions stand sales at the event will be donated to the cancer charity Pals, which had been “very supportive to Eoghan’s family”, according to Ms Hoey.

Participants also had the opportunity to make donations when they registered.

Children between the ages of 4 and 11 took part in last night’s races, with competitors each receiving a medal after crossing the finishing line.

Eoghan’s story clearly inspired some of the runners to participate.

Sherry Trott signed up her daughter, Jasmine, 5, for the event at the last minute.

She said: It’s definitely a fun event in which younger children can participate and it gets them motivated.

“Also, it’s a charity event for a good cause. I didn’t know about Eoghan until the last minute when I saw it advertised and that’s when we decided to sign up. A lot of parents have been saying that — there’s been some late, last-minute registrations.“

Latia Robinson was at the stadium with her son, Ahri.

She said: “It’s a good event, yes. I learnt about the charity element to it when I signed up — it makes it all the more worthwhile.

Keishen Bean roared his son, Koa, around the track before telling The Royal Gazette: “I’m here because I like to give back, and once I found out what the event was all about, it was a no-brainer. Koa loves to run and it’s been a fun evening.”

The Mid-Atlantic Athletic Club will hold its Dash at Dusk races in June and a Dash at Sunset event in September.