Moylagh 50-Mile Challenge: one man walking from Malin head to Sneem

The Moylagh JFK 50-Mile Challenge is back for its seventh year, and up to 1,000 people are expected to tackle the epic event which is the biggest of its kind in Europe, on June 9.

The crowd will head off at 6am and cover the spectacular scenic route through Westmeath, Meath and Cavan taking in megalithic Loughcrew, Mullaghmeen and the Seven Wonders of Fore.

Among them will be Martin Sheridan from Mountnugent, who is embarking on a 310-mile challenge to raise funds for the two charities supported by the 50-Mile Challenge, the Irish Cancer Society and LARCC Cancer Support. 

Martin Sheridan.

 

Martin will start by tackling the 50-Mile Challenge, before continuing to walk from Malin Head to Sneem in memory of his father-in-law, who died from cancer.

The fitness enthusiast who has completed 14 marathons this year said: “Plenty of people have told me I’m mad and that this can’t be done.

“Yes, it will be hard, but I just think about all those who are going through treatment for cancer and every day. 

“They put one foot in front of the other and keep going no matter how difficult it is. So I’m going to do just that to support them.

“We all know someone who has had cancer or who is going through treatment at present. My story is that of my father in-law, Michael Smith. 

“Michael was first diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus in 1983 at the age of 36. Seven years later he lost his battle and left behind his wife and young children. 

“Thankfully, today, through the advances in research, early detection and treatment more people are surviving cancer and go on to lead full lives.”

Registration is open at 50milechallenge.com and 80% of funds raised are in aid of the Irish Cancer Society, and the remainder supports the work of LARCC Cancer Support.

Organiser Gerry McDonnell said: “This year brings yet again more great news, with the event now officially the biggest in Europe and eagerly in second place in the world of 50-Mile Challenges. 

“We are looking to keep growing and provide a day that participants will never forget. 

“No matter how slow you go, you are still lapping everyone on the couch. 

“A journey of 50 miles starts with a single step. Let’s take it together!”

Sign up now at 50milechallenge.com or see 50milechallenge on Facebook for more information. To donate food, water or any other supplies please contact info@50milechallenge.com