The launch of 2020 Moylagh JFK 50 Mile Challenge in aid of the Irish Cancer Society at Fore Abbey Co Westmeath which had to be cancelled. This year’s event is going ahead on 7th August.

Moylagh 50 Mile Challenge set to go ahead in August

Ann Casey

Published: Thu 17 Jun 2021, 1:50 PM

Last updated: Thu 17 Jun 2021, 1:51 PM

The 2021 Moylagh JFK 50 Mile Challenge is to go ahead as a physical event, in line with Covid-19 restrictions for outdoor events.

The challenge will take place on Saturday 7th August, with an added virtual event also available for anyone abroad or who cannot travel.

Now in its 10th year, the popular annual walk/run which covers the three counties of Meath, Cavan and Westmeath has raised over €790,000 for vital cancer services since it first began, and the organiser are now looking to break the €1million mark.

Last year’s virtual challenge had a massive response and raised over €50,000 for cancer services.

“We are really looking forward to getting the 50 Mile Challenge back up and running after last year’s live event not being able to go ahead with Covid-19. By staggering the starting times we can thankfully accommodate the current guidelines for outdoor events. We will of course increase numbers if the Government eases restrictions further in the meantime, but for the moment we have ample room and facilities to accommodate people within the current guidelines," said Gerry McDonnell on behalf of the organisers.

“We do like to spoil our walkers/runners with food every year and this year will be no exception, however to comply with restrictions everything will be pre-packed. If you wish to bring your own nourishment please do. We are looking to smash the €1million mark this year supporting cancer services in Ireland”

All of the money raised goes to cancer services in Ireland with 80per cent going to the Irish Cancer Society, 10per cent going to LARCC in Westmeath, and 10per cent going to Palliative Care. Most of the running costs are sponsored and donated.

Johnny Guirke, Chairman of the Moylagh JFK 50 Mile Challenge organising committee, said: “We are delighted this year to also welcome the Boston Moylagh 50 Mile Challenge which has joined in our efforts to hit the €1million mark. We can’t wait for the 7th August to welcome people back to Moylagh, and we would like to thank all the businesses that took part over the years and everyone who has donated to the running of the event and invite them back again for this year.”

Government guidelines now permit participants to set off on the traditional scenic 50 mile walk/run route covering the three counties, with the option of a remote virtual Challenge also available.

The challenge is to complete 50 miles in under 20 hours. People can do as much or as little as they like, and every mile makes a difference.

This year’s start will be a little different to accommodate Covid-19 restrictions. The event start will be staggered across an hour between 5am and 6am on the morning of 7th August, with smaller groups starting out every 15 minutes. Sanitising stations will also be available for the event.

The Moylagh JFK 50 Mile Challenge is now the biggest charity 50 mile walking challenge in the world beating the one in the US by over 200 people in 2019. Over the years it has touched the hearts of the country with all 32 counties represented, along with participants from all over the world.

Participants and groups can register on the website www.50milechallenge.com. If any business wants to get involved to contact info@50milechallenge.com to sponsor or donate.