Challenge raises over £11,000

Chris Nugent, John McCracken, Lorcan Quinn and Scott Arnold joined forces with their friend, Chris Gallagher, to take on the ‘Peak to Peak’ cycling challenge all in aid of Action Cancer and The Michaela Foundation.

On September 6, the brave team completed the grueling challenge, which involved scaling four mountains - the tallest in each of the provinces of Ireland - and cycling over 500 miles in between, all in six days.

By taking on this adventure of a lifetime, the team have so far raised a tremendous £11,210, which will help the charities improve and make a difference in people’s lives.

The group would like to thank everyone who supported them along the way and those who donated so generously. If anyone would still like to donate, they can do so at www.justgiving.com/PeaktoPeak

“This challenge was an unreal experience. It was pretty tough at times, but definitely a worthwhile undertaking - I loved it,” said Chris.

“We’re already thinking about what next year’s project might look like but we will be getting some rest first. We were able to encourage each other especially when we were faced with bad weather. We couldn’t have done it without our support driver, Eugene along the way.”

Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charity, are the only charity in Northern Ireland who offer digital breast screening services to women outside the NHS health range (40-49 and 70+). The charity screen 1,000 women every month, both saving lives and providing peace of mind for women across Northern Ireland.

Other services include a mobile unit the BIG BUS, men’s MOT health checks, counselling, complementary therapy, research and health promotion. Every year they need to raise £3.2 million to keep their services going.

The Michaela Foundation is inspired through the life and values of Michaela McAreavey. It aims to provide opportunities to young people and helps promote life fulfilment through happiness, fun, confidence and faith.

The Michaela Foundation launched its two flagship initiatives this year, ‘The Student Award Scheme’ which sees three university students in Irish language, religious education and general discipline receive a £1,000 award.

‘The Girls Summer Camp’ provides a timetable of activities for young girls aged 11-13 to participate and learn in the five core ‘elements’ of the camp; fun, faith, fashion, Irish & wellbeing.