The weekend of the 15th May will remain in some people’s minds for a long time. This was the weekend when 36 people from all over Ireland challenged themselves in the mountains of Connemara despite the very adverse weather conditions.

The team arrived in the Sleepzone Hostel, Leenane on Friday 15th May for a team briefing, and introduction to the weekend. Saturday morning dawned bright and early as the team headed for the Twelve Bens. The day started well, but after 2 hours the weather closed in. The teams battled on, and continued on the Twelve Bens Horseshoe for many hours.

All teams reached Ben Bhan, the highest mountain in the bens just after lunchtime. Teams continued along the horse shoe and finished back where they started mid-afternoon.

Despite the wind, rain and bitter cold, the atmosphere was electric on the mountains, and everyone participated 100%.

Saturday night, the support team prepared a first class meal, and the team were shown photos of the day, and given a presentation on the work FOL do in Kenya.

Sunday morning dawned bright and early and the sun shone all day! Teams completed a smaller walk on Sunday with superb views on the entire mountain range – a rewarding tribute to the hard work the day before!

In total 29 people completed the challenge, with 7 people supporting. Thank you to all the participants and the support team for your participating, determination and contribution towards FOL’s water, health and education projects in Kenya. Next year the Mountain Challenge will be held on the May Bank Holiday Weekend in the Mourne Mountains. Watch this website for more details.