A Twin Peaks challenge taking in the breathtaking scenery of south Armagh will take place in June – with money raised to support the work of two very worthy causes.
Run for Autism HAND and Special Olympics Ireland will be the beneficiaries and the call has gone out for local people to sign up and help raise money while getting out and getting active.
All runners, hikers and walkers are invited to take part in one of three exciting challenges, all of which will be taking in the spectacular views across Camlough and Slieve Gullion mountains in South Armagh.
The ‘Twin Peaks Challenge’ will take place on Saturday, June 23, starting at Carrickcruppen GAA, Camlough.
The event, organised by the famous Camlough athlete Colm Fearon – aka ‘Bootsy’ – has planned three thrilling choices on the day including a marathon and half marathon for runners and also a half marathon for enthusiastic walkers and hikers.
Encouraging everyone to come out and support the event, Colm explained: “Due to the success of the small scale event last year, I decided to go with it again this year but with a bit of a difference. I’ve added in two more routes to create more interest and ensure everyone can take part.
“I would encourage everyone who loves to run, walk or hike to come out and take part in the occasion to ultimately fundraise for two very special charities close to my heart.
“It’s sure to be an event not to be missed – a day full of amazing views, selfies, exercise and most importantly, great craic.”
Colm added: “For anyone unable to take part in the event, but would like to volunteer, we are seeking some marshalls and even musicians to keep the spirits up for those participating along the way.”
Registration is currently open on www.active.com and will close on May 12, to allow time to order the special medals specifically designed for this year’s event.
The cost is £25 for all events and no booking fee.
Getting set and ready to take on the challenge, Chairman of Run for Autism HAND, and keen athlete himself, Sean Quinn, said: “We are delighted our charity has been nominated as one of the beneficiaries from this exciting event. It sure is an event with a difference and I’m so looking forward to take on the challenge myself.
“Our registered charity is solely committed to helping those living with Autism, and their families in the Southern area across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon and Newry, Mourne and Down Districts.
“There are hundreds of children are newly diagnosed with Autism each year in NI and this number is increasing significantly.
“I am calling out to all runners and walkers to come along and join us to run or walk the challenge raising awareness for autism, have a great time and most importantly help contribute to two very worthy causes helping local people in our communities.
Paddy Duffy from Special Olympics Ireland added: “Through sport, we are dedicated to enriching the lives of adults and children with an intellectual disability.
“Our organisation provides training and competition opportunities to more than 10,500 athletes of all ages and abilities through 412 local sport clubs throughout the island of Ireland and benefits from an extensive network of more than 22,000 volunteers. Monies raised through this event will go towards the Special Olympics World Games 2019 to be held in Abu Dhabi next March.
“All funds are greatly appreciated and we are delighted to have been selected to benefit from this great event.”
For the three events on the day, the full marathon starts at 8am, half marathon at 10am, and half marathon hike at 8.15am.
Registration and pack up will take place at Carrickcruppen GAA from 7am on the day.
The full marathon will start and finish at the club and will be a one loop course crossing Slieve Gullion and Camlough Mountains on a multi terrain course. The half marathon and half marathon hike will start at Slieve Gullion and finish at Carrickcruppen club.
Everyone will be transported to Slieve Gullion by bus. Showers and changing facilities will be available at the finish as well as light refreshments.
More details on the event can be found on the ‘Twin Peaks Challenge’ Facebook page.
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