Mighty Mayo Mountain Challenge 2009

Here they come!

Last Saturday saw 60 brave souls take on the inaugural Mighty Mayo Mountain Challenge in aid of Cancer Action Mayo.  This Challenge involved tackling the three highest peaks in Mayo – Mweelrea, Nephin & Croagh Patrick – all in one day.  So at 5.30am on Saturday 22 August 60 people set out from Castlebar to embark on this gruelling Challenge. 

Thankfully the dawn broke with some beautiful weather as the climbers began their ascent of the first mountain, Nephin at 6.20am.  The climbers were treated to some beautiful views as they made their way to the summit.  By 10.00am the group were winging their way towards Murrisk for climb number two of the day – Croagh Patrick.  The ascent began at 11.15am and again the climbers enjoyed perfect weather conditions and although the mountain was busy with Gaelforce participants everyone managed to conquer it successfully and unharmed. 

The group then took a well earned rest for an hour or so and enjoyed some beautifully prepared food in Murrisk Community Centre and some much appreciated physio treatment, expertly administered by Keith, Jacinta Hammond & Lucie Hanaghan.  Then it was back on the buses again for the final assault – Mweelrea -  the highest mountain in Connaught.

The Gang tackle Mweelrea

The final ascent began around 4.30pm and unfortunately the weather took a turn for the worst and the notorious Mweelrea showed its teeth.  Strong wind and rain battered the brave climbers as they scaled the mountain.  Thankfully all climbers returned to terra firma safe and sound by 8.00pm and ready to head home.

Nephin at Dawn

The day was rounded off with a post challenge celebration in The Wishing Well, Ballyvary.  So far a total of €16,000 has come in from the Sponsorship and this is expected to top €20,000 once all cards are returned.  So well done to all concerned.

What A view?

The organisers would like to thank all the volunteer climbers who took on the Challenge, Michael Griffin Coaches for providing the transport, Keith & Jacinta Hammond and Lucie Hanaghan for their superb physio/massage work on the day, Murrisk Community Centre, The Wishing Well Pub, Ballyvary and all the people and businesses who sponsored the climbers.

Some Happy Climbers