placeholder image — Bluestack Challenge | Siobhan McGowan

Hundreds took part in the challenge, raising money for a range of Donegal charities

Looking at the range of addresses of walkers who registered for the Bluestack Challenge one can see that the appeal of this event spans from Buncrana to Ballybunnion and from Killalla to Swords. While most may have Donegal connections there are some who have taken the opportunity of the challenge to explore Donegal and its Bluestack range of hills.

Click on the video below for a gallery of photos by Siobhan McGowan:

An early start and a journey of almost two hours before getting on a bus in Drimarone to travel almost another hour to Fintown to sign in before starting was the experience of many. Such is the dedication of the many who want to fundraise for charities in County Donegal.

Rising at 4am three young men from thirty minutes on the other side of Omagh: Vincent, Brian and Sean raised almost €600 each. None of these guys have any connection with County Donegal and Vincent and Brian took the Challenge for the second time and stepped up once again to support charities in areas like Cancer Care, Additional Needs, Mental Health – Counselling Services and Neurodegenerative Supports within County Donegal.

After signing in to register their presence, the walkers heard short talks of appreciation from Mayor of Donegal Town and surrounding areas Anna Gallagher, JP McGroary Lead Guide for the day, and once again Noel Cunningham gave a welcoming, encouraging and humorous speech.

At the scheduled time of 8.45am the first group An Eachla headed away, followed at three-minute intervals, the three other groups, Silver Hill, Carnaween, and Binbane. Each group with around 65 to 70 walkers were under the watchful guidance of members of the local hillwalking club The Bluestack Ramblers.