Adventurer to climb mountains in memory of Ashling Murphy

THE number 23 holds special importance for the family and friends of Ashling Murphy as it is the young age Ashling will forever be.

Paul Tierney, an extreme athlete and adventurer, will soon embark to undertake the Ashling Murphy 23 Peaks Challenge to honour Ashling’s love of sport and to raise funds for the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund and Children’s Grief Centre.

It gets underway on Wednesday, August 9, at 9am at Doolans at The Blueball and in conjunction with the 23 Peak Challenge homecoming, the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund committee are hosting an evening of celebration titled “A Celebration of Ashling Murphy’s Legacy” on Saturday, August 19 at The Blueball Pub, Co. Offaly. (Eircode R35 KX08)

This special celebration will be the official 23 Peak Challenge Homecoming and will also be an opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous support from all individuals, groups and organisations that have supported the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund to date.

The passion, determination and generous support of everyone will help the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund continue the strong legacy left by Ashling, by supporting young people in the Traditional Irish Arts, Culture and Heritage, which Ashling held dear to her heart. Paul Tierney has taken on the enormous endurance challenge of cycling between and running 23 of Ireland’s highest peaks in honour of Ashling Murphy.

The challenge, designed by Paul, is to conquer 23 peaks in the republic of Ireland on one continuous expedition, unaided and travelling via bike and on foot, while sleeping using a tent and camping equipment he will carry as part of the challenge.

Paul aims to climb 23 peaks – 172kms running – 1200 kms cycling with over 21,000 metres of climbing overall from the start to the finish line – within 11 days (approx. 105 hours) – unaided – continuously.

Paul would love to have plenty of support along the way ahead of and during this challenge. All donations can be made through a secure iDonate platform via the following link: www.idonate.ie/AshlingMurphy23Peaks Paul’s daily journey can be followed live when he sets off on Wed 9th August at 9am.

Please see Paul’s social media accounts on Instagram (@trail_junkie_ireland) and Facebook for his GPS tracker link and regular updates. Further information about the challenge route and peaks selected is available through the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund Facebook and Instagram pages For further queries, please email ashlingmurphymemorialfund@gmail.com

Details: Start Line: Wednesday 9th August 2023 at 9am at Doolan’s Spar, Blueball, Co. Offaly Finish Line: Saturday 19th August 2023 at 6pm at The Blueball Pub, Co. Offaly