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Newry man Paddy Heaney is currently taking on an incredible challenge, completing 10 half marathons in just ten days, from the townland of Newry in County Wicklow to Newry City, in memory of his mother Joanne Heaney who passed away 18 years ago aged just 45. A Just Giving page has been set up to raise funds for The Road Ahead NI a support group for those affected by road traffic collisions. Already over £6000 has been raised and there are just 3 days left of the challenge.
Despite the incredible temperatures Heaney is relishing the challenge. Speaking about the warm spell he said "Walking from Newry to Newry it has been absolutely lovely. A half marathon in it a day for the last 8 has been class. Hopefully it stays with us to we get back to Newry County Down on Saturday and complete the challenge". Newry in Wicklow is close to his heart as he took many childhood trips to there with his mother.
Heaney explains: "Joanne was an inspirational woman, a devoted athlete, and a cherished friend to so many. Her death left a huge void in the lives of all who knew and loved her. Since losing my mum, I have continued to “carry her baton,” organising numerous physically demanding fundraising challenges in her memory, supporting causes close to his heart.
"This time, I am raising funds for The Road Ahead NI, a charity deeply meaningful to him following the loss of his friend Karl Heaney, his cousin’s partner John Paul McKevitt, and his great aunt Phylis Mackey in separate road traffic collisions."
"The challenge is a tribute to my mum's strength, spirit and love of sport, and a powerful way to support people affected by road traffic collisions so that no one has to face this journey alone." he concluded.
Yesterdays challenge was the 23km from Drogheda to Ardee. Tomorrow Friday 17 July they leave Dundalk at half 12 from An Tain Arts Centre to the Carrickdale at Carrickarnon and then on Saturday they are meeting at the carpark on the left hand side for 11.30am to start at 12pm back into Newry. If you would like to join him on either stage just turn up.
The Just Giving Link is still live for anyone who would like to donate at www.justgiving.com/page/paddy-heaney-3
A homecoming event is being held at The Windmill Bar this Saturday night 18 July with plenty of signed sports jerseys for prizes. You can buy tickets for the big Jersey draw at £5 each via Revolut or Paypal below:
Revolut: @pch1989
Paypal: paddycharlieheaney@outlook.com
You can also follow his journey at www.facebook.com
