Kilcullen kayakers in nationwide fundraiser for MND research on Saturday

Four members of Kilcullen Canoe Club will be taking part in a mammoth nationwide fundraiser for Motor Neurone Disease research on this Saturday 20 April, writes Brian Byrne. The event will include both a coastal circumnavigation of Ireland by sea-kayakers and canoeists climbing the highest peak in every county.

Sea to Summit for MND has been organised by well-known Inishowen sea-kayaker Adrian Harkin, who is now living with the disease. The target is to raise €1 million on the day.

The circumnavigation of the island will be carried out by teams of kayakers at each part of the coastline, while other kayak enthusiasts will climb the highest hill or mountain in each county.

Michael P O'Farrell (above) of Kilcullen CC will paddle the Dublin Bay section of the circumnavigation, leading a group of sea kayakers on the leg. "When I paddled around Ireland in 2017, Adrian looked after me when I paddled around his part of Ireland, the Inishowen peninsula," Michael recalls. "He not only provided bed and breakfast but gave invaluable guidance on how to deal with the treacherous currents around Malin Head."

Other members of Kilcullen Canoe Club participating are Helen Whiteley who will lead a walk up the highest hill in Kildare, Cupidstown Hill, Oisin Farrell who will travel to Louth to climb Slieve Foy, and Sonja Farrell will go to Longford to climb Corn Hill.

More details on the Summit 2 Sea for MND are available on their website. An account at iDonate.ie is available for those who want to support this incredible venture. 

A live map will track everyone involved on the day.

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