Climbers set to scale Cuilcagh for CF

Hundreds of hill and mountain walkers are preparing to pull on their hiking boots as they aim to scale the highest peak in the region, Cuilcagh mountain later this week.

Now in its third year, the Conquer Cuilcagh Challenge will take place on Saturday, September 14, 8am to 4pm, and starting from the Glangevlin Community Centre from where participants will be shuttled to the starting point.

The brainchild of Richard Clarke, since the event's inception it has gone on to raise in the region of €20,000, money which has been allocated and provided for the improvement of facilities for patients with Cystic Fibrosis at Cavan General Hospital.

Affording care to patients in Cavan, Leitrim, Monaghan and Longford, earlier this year the quest for improved facilities were handed a major boost with the HSE announcing it was, part funded by the Run DMC 4 CF charity campaign, to install new in-patient facilities at the local hospital site.

With views of five counties from the peak when the weather is good and the sky clear, the CF Branch Cavan is hoping to this year attract 665 walkers and climbers for this year's event, one for each metre of the summit.

“Its a wonderful family day out”, Lorraine O'Neill of the CF Branch Cavan and Run DMC 4 CF told The Anglo-Celt. “Whether you're a seasoned walker or just looking to do something different at the weekend, this Cuillcagh Challenge is an brilliant achievement to be able to say you've done it.

“All proceeds go towards improving facilities in Cavan General Hospital for PWCF(People with Cystic Fibrosis). The Cuilcagh Challenge was organised back in 2011 and to date it has gone on to raise €10,465 in its first year and again in 2012 it raised €8,743. On September 14 this year we will have our third run at it and hopefully it will be another great day.”

Access to the climb will be via the L 10151 Dunmakeever route. Cars may be parked at St Patrick’s Church and outside Glangevlin Hall from which transport will be provided to and from the base. Climbers will be asked to register at the base (from 08.00 am till 13.00 hours) and will be encouraged to wear suitable footwear, follow the precise trail that will be set out and take water with them.

Refreshments will be served to participants back in the Community Centre afterwards. No sponsorship cards are required. Cost is €20 per person, or €10 for U18. Family rates are available.

Anyone interested in taking part is asked to please contact Lorraine O’Neill, Main Street Barber, Main St, Cavan on 0860821561 to register. Registration also takes place on the day in Glangevlin.