The late Adrian Harkin's legacy lives on as Summit 2 Sea for MND wins top award

Ronan O'Neill, Shane Cronin, Elaine Alexander Shooter and Ciaran Farrell at the Canoeing Ireland annual awards ceremony which took place at the Mullingar Park Hotel on Saturday

placeholder image — Ronan O'Neill, Shane Cronin, Elaine Alexander Shooter and Ciaran Farrell at the Canoeing Ireland annual awards ceremony which took place at the Mullingar Park Hotel on Saturday

This recognition not only celebrates an extraordinary campaign but also cements Adrian’s dream of raising awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease

The legacy of Adrian Harkin and his inspiring vision for Summit 2 Sea for MND continues to shine brightly, as the event was honoured with the prestigious Canoeing Ireland Event of the Year award.

This recognition not only celebrates an extraordinary campaign but also cements Adrian’s dream of raising awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Adrian, a kayaking enthusiast and founder of Inish Adventures, spearheaded this ambitious challenge despite his own diagnosis of MND.

Summit 2 Sea for MND combined his love for adventure with a heartfelt mission to leave a legacy that would make a difference for others facing the disease. The event saw participants paddle Ireland’s coastline and climb the 32 highest peaks, raising over €105,000 for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA).

On behalf of the Harkin family and the organising team, Ronan O'Neill, Shane Cronin, Elaine Alexander Shooter and Ciaran Farrell accepted the award at Canoeing Ireland’s annual recognition event. This accolade is a testament to the unwavering support of the kayaking community, friends, family, and countless individuals who rallied behind Adrian’s vision.

“Winning this award is a moment of immense pride,” said Ronan O’Neill, a core team member of the campaign. “It represents the incredible spirit of collaboration and resilience that defined Summit 2 Sea for MND Adrian’s legacy will continue to inspire, and this recognition is a fitting tribute to his remarkable determination.”

Motor Neurone Disease remains a devastating illness, but events like Summit 2 Sea for MND highlight the power of community and the importance of funding research and resources for those affected. Adrian’s journey and the campaign’s success serve as a beacon of hope, showing how one person’s vision can inspire a nation.

Adrian of Greencastle Road, Moville, passed away in June. The Harkin family and the Summit 2 Sea for MND team express their heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this achievement. From the paddlers and climbers to the donors and supporters, each played a vital role in making this event unforgettable.

To continue supporting the cause and Adrian’s enduring legacy, make donations to Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA). Together, we can honour Adrian’s memory and keep the momentum alive in the fight against MND.