Get your hiking boots on! Final call for walkers to join Louth's Cross Cooley Challenge
With just over a week to go, momentum is building for this year’s Cross Cooley Challenge as walkers sign up to take on the Cooley Mountains on Saturday 23 May
With just over a week to go, momentum is building for this year’s Cross Cooley Challenge, as walkers from across the region sign up to take on the Cooley Mountains on Saturday 23 May.
Now in its 14th year, the much-loved fundraising event continues to draw strong community support, raising vital funds for North Louth Hospice and Maria Goretti Foundation.
Since its inception in 2013, the challenge has raised over €487,000, with nearly 500 participants taking part last year alone.
Participants will complete a 15.4km hike from Ravensdale to Carlingford, taking in some of the most scenic views in the region.
Designed to be completed at your own pace, the event is open to individuals, groups of friends, families and corporate teams, with many returning year after year.
Errol Boyle from the Cross Cooley Challenge team said: “Every year the support from the local community is incredible.
"People come back again and again, and there’s a real sense of togetherness on the day.
"It’s a great challenge, but it’s also about supporting two charities that mean a lot to so many families in the area.”
With the event date fast approaching, organisers are encouraging anyone considering taking part to sign up now. Registration remains open, and people can also get involved by fundraising or making a donation if they are unable to take part on the day.
Buses will run from the Greenore Railway Saloon to the starting point near the Lumpers Bar in Ravensdale, with return transport available from Carlingford after the hike.
Refreshments and music will follow in Greenore, giving participants a chance to celebrate together after completing the challenge.
Sponsorship cards can be collected from the Greenore Railway Saloon, the North Louth Hospice shop on the Ramparts, or by emailing [email protected]
The Cross Cooley Challenge team will also host an information and sign-up stand at the Marshes Shopping Centre on Saturday 16 May from 11am to 5pm, where members of the public can sponsor a walker, register for the challenge, or collect a sponsorship card.
For more information, visit the Cross Cooley Challenge Facebook or Instagram pages.