More than 400 people hiked the stunning coastline of Glencolmcille today in support of a milestone fundraiser for the Bluestack Special Needs Foundation.
The 25km Bluestack Challenge has been hailed as a huge success, with huge levels of community spirit evident at all stages.
Hikers took off from Naomh Columba GAA pitch and traversed a breathtakingly scenic route to Port and beyond.
Every cent raised from the sponsored walk enables the Bluestack Special Needs Foundation to provide a range of supports and services for young people with additional needs in Donegal.
More than 370 families benefit from the inclusive community facility, based in Donegal Town.
Bluestack Special Needs Committee accepts a donation from Peggy Stringer (Kelly) of the Donegal Association at the Bluestack Challenge
The guides who made the Bluestack Challenge run smoothly and safely
Wendy McCarry, CEO of Bluestack Special Needs Foundation
Speaking ahead of the walk, Wendy McCarry, CEO, told walkers about her youngest daughter Ava, who is almost 17 years old, has complex needs and attends the Bluestack Foundation: “She means the world to us. Our whole lives revolve around giving her a quality of life and that would not happen without today and all of you. From the bottom of my heart, as a parent, I just want to thank everyone who takes steps today and everyone who fundraised. Every penny raised makes a difference.”
Bluestack Special Needs Foundation Foundar Patrick McBrearty and his daughter Aine, who inspired the charity
Over the past 20 years the Bluestack Challenge has raised over €1.5million. Today was a momentous day for the charity as they marked a milestone anniversary – as well as the 60th birthday of founder Patrick McBrearty.
More than 50 volunteers and hill walking guides were applauded for making the day possible.
This year’s event was kindly sponsored by Blas at the Gateway, The Gateway Lodge and Magee 1866.
Views on the Bluestack Challenge
Bluestack Challenge 2022
Bluestack Challenge Participants
A group returns from their hike to applause at Naomh Columba GAA Club
