Dungiven man takes on ‘26 in 26’ Challenge to support four charities including Foyle Hospice

A Dungiven man is preparing to put his endurance to the test by completing 26 events in 26 weeks to raise funds for four charities, including Foyle Hospice, a cause that is particularly close to his heart.

Seamus McCloskey has launched his ambitious fundraising challenge, titled ‘26 in 26’, which will see himself, and several friends who are helping out, take on a wide variety of activities including running, hiking, cycling and community events throughout the coming months.

Through the challenge, Seamus hopes to raise vital funds and awareness for Foyle Hospice, Search and Rescue Dogs Association (SARDA), Cancer Fund for Children and Legenderry Relay for Life.

This will be Seamus’s third consecutive year taking on demanding fundraising challenges for charity, something he says is part of a personal commitment he made to support organisations that provide vital services for others.

“This is part of a three-year promise I made to myself to raise money for charities that do so much for people”, explained Seamus.

“There are people who may not fully understand what the hospice does until they find themselves in that situation.”

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The first event in the challenge took place on Saturday, March 7, when Seamus hosted a coffee morning at Silky’s Bistro in Dungiven, bringing the local community together to kick off the fundraising effort.

The early weeks of the challenge will serve as a warm-up, combining endurance events with community fundraising activities.

On March 14, Seamus will take part in the Bentley Group 10 Miler in Derry, followed by a 10k run in Belfast on St Patrick’s Day.

Just a few days later, on March 22, he will compete in a Duathlon in Buncrana, which means the team will have completed the first 4 events in 15 days.

Looking ahead to April, Seamus will be planning a sea dip, as well as a Bingo Night in Claudy, encouraging the wider community to get involved in supporting the charities.

The challenges will intensify in May, with FIVE events scheduled, including the demanding Seven Peaks of the Mournes, a climb of Mount Errigal and a half marathon.

The fundraising will continue into June, with Event 13 being the half way mark on June 6 where there is a breakfast planned in the Dolphin, Gortnaghey. This will be followed by the Legenderry Relay for Life on June 20.

Seamus says he also has a special plan in mind for the final event.

“I have an idea for the closing challenge, but I don’t want to reveal too much just yet,” he said.

“I always like to keep a surprise for the end.

“If anyone would like to come out and join me for a challenge, run alongside me, or get involved in any of the events, they would be more than welcome. The more people who get involved, the better.”

Seamus extended his thanks to those who have supported him so far saying: “A special mention to Joe Burnett from NWRC who has been looking after our social media and also Tylor Woods. Additionally, Modern Maintenance solutions are campaign sponsors for a second year running - Kiernan and Shauna are fantastic people, similar to the story of my fundraising, they have a strong belief in helping people and have been a huge support throughout these fundraising events. There is also room for local businesses to come on board and sponsor an event if anyone is interested.”

Speaking about his decision to support Foyle Hospice, Seamus said the organisation provides an invaluable service to families across the region.

He explained: “There aren’t many services like Foyle Hospice. The fact that it is local makes it even more special because people don’t have to travel far to receive the support they need.

“We are incredibly lucky to have it on our doorstep. It’s a very special place and I’m looking forward to helping raise awareness of the fantastic work carried out by the staff, volunteers and fundraisers who support families across our community.

“At the end of the day, this challenge is about recognising just how important these charities are and the incredible work they do to help others.”

If you would like to support Seamus in his fundraising efforts, please visit Go Fund Me