Challenging drumlins and a cheering community

The 2025 Breffni 3 Provinces Challenge in Arva was a great success, drawing an incredible 985 participants from across Ireland and beyond. With seven course options - ranging from 5k, 7k, and 10k runs to a half marathon and 30k, 50k, and 100k cycles - the event winds through the three provinces of Ulster, Connacht, and Leinster, offering challenging hills and community spirit.

While some participants use the challenge as a warm-up for upcoming marathons, others underestimated the toughness of the Cavan-Monaghan drumlins, recalls organiser Philip Brady, chuckling.

“If they're from further south or west, they are probably not prepared for some of the hills.” Yet all were grateful for the well-placed snack stations along the way offering water, bars, and morale boosts.

The event wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated volunteers, emphasises Philip. Sandwiches, tea, coffee, and BBQ were all prepared and served by generous locals.

Special mention goes to Frances who organises the snack points every year and to Padraig, who returns from London annually just to help set up.

The whole event is orchestrated by the Breffni 3 Provinces Challenge Committee, working months in advance.

MCs John Duffy and Gerry Brady kept spirits high, interviewing finishers and capturing the atmosphere of the crowd cheering on the arriving participants.

Among the standout participants were Marjorie Gormley and Eamon Maguire, both in their 80s, who have taken part nearly every year since 2003.

Despite a recent hip-replacement, Eamon finished his 23rd challenge: “I was delighted to finish it, it was a great welcome home in Arva.

It’s a credit to the whole committee, they did well,” he said.

The Cornafaen man recalls the bustling fair-days in Arva. "Arva was our town to go."

Last weekend again, the Challenge turned Arva into a lively, charming spot.

Organiser Philip Brady emphasised the charitable heart of the Challenge, with proceeds going to The Friends of St Luke’s (Dublin), National Breast Cancer Research Institute (Galway), and the Cavan/Monaghan Cancer Homecare Association.

Over €1 million has been raised to date - every cent (after minimal expenses) going directly to these vital causes.