Are You Right There Michael, Are You Right?

A very unique fundraiser in aid of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice and Western Care will take place on Sat. 18th of July in Castlebar. The idea which was suggested by Michael O'Connor from Parke to local publican and well known "aul stock", Mick Byrne, is a 5km charity walk on the newly opened Greenway to Turlough but there is a catch: you can only partake if your name is Michael, Michelle, Micheala, Mickey, Mike, Miquel etc!! Even if your second name or Confirmation name is one of these, you're eligible. However, in the interest of charity (and for a small extra fee!), you can become an honorary Michael/Michelle for the day!

This super novel idea has certainly caught the attention of people already. Michael Ring was the first to sign up and he has agreed to be a leader of the walk. Mick Byrne said, "I came up with the idea two years ago and wondered if it would catch on but as soon as I contacted the various Michaels/Michelle and told them what I had in mind and the charities involved, every one of them immediately agreed to come on board so I decided that this is the year". Mick also added that he had a three year plan for the event: "year one will be the walk on the Greenway, year two will be a world record attempt to gather the greatest number of Micks in one place at one time and year three will be a world record attempt to have the greatest number of Michelles in one place at one time. I will be personally inviting Michelle Obama to lead the walk in 2017 but if she can't make I hope she will still make the €20 donation!!".

Joe Brett, (Western Care), Mick Baynes, Laurita Blewitt (Mayo Roscommon Hospice), Nora Roache (Western Care), Michael Ring T.D. Minister of State for Tourism & Sport, Michael Gallagher, Mick McDonnell, Michelle Mulherrin T.D., Mick Byrne, Mick Durkan , Mick Buckton & Michael Commins.

At the launch, Lauritta Blewitt from Mayo/Roscommon Hospice said they were delighted to be part of this event as every house in community has at some stage been affected by cancer and with them opening a new 14 bed facility in Castlebar, all funds are greatly appreciated". Joe Brett from Western Care echoed Laura's words and said "next year is the 50th anniversary of Western Care so this world record attempt will be a flagship event in their calendar".

After the walk is over the music will start in Hoban's car park with newly formed band (for one night only), Micks' Emotions featuring, Mick Buckton, Mick Baynes, Mick Staunton and Mick Mulhearne!!! They will be playing a great "MIX" of music on the night and if any Mick want to join in for a song, they will be more than welcome!! The music and fun will continue throughout the evening and the only question is, do you think we'll make it home before the night!!

Details can be found at https://www.facebook.com/areyourighttheremichaelareyouright

Pictured at the launch at Mick Byrnes.