Castlepollard to go wild for action in jungle fundraiser

Two dozen intrepid Castlepollard hurling and camogie supporters have signed up for a series of spine tingling, tension filled challenges which include getting up close with a snake, eating bugs and surviving hell holes – to raise funds for the club.

The Jungle Fundraising initiative will be officially launched next Saturday night, February 28, in the Castle Varagh Hotel, and the event itself will take place in a giant 700-seat marquee at the hotel on May 2.

Colin McCormack is one of the people behind this fundraiser. He explained that it is similar to the bush tucker trials seen on TV.

On Saturday night next, representatives from Fundraising Events Group, the company that runs the event, will attend the launch, bringing with them a large snake. The participants will each be pictured with the snake and their profile pictures, along with links to donate, will be posted on social media.

While it will “all kick off on Saturday”, Colin explained that some of the participants have already started fundraising with collection boxes and discos. “We have a lot to do,” he remarked.

The main sponsors of the event are the Castle Varagh Hotel and another local firm, Bigwood Properties. “We will also be looking for trial sponsors and contestants will have their own sponsors,” Colin said.

“The 24 participants will be divided into two teams and each team will have to make it through nine trials like eating slugs or drinking something or other. It is all food prepared by professionals so, while it might not look the best, it won’t taste too bad,” Colin claimed. The winner will be crowned King or Queen of the Jungle.

The idea was put forward by Colin and the club’s fundraising committee. “Hopefully it will be a success. It is all to boost our underage activities and unite the club,” the former club hurler said.