A community effort...volunteers line the streets in support of those walking the Moylagh 50 Mile Challenge
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It was definitely a family Affair for the Grall’s at Moylagh who were cheering on their mother and all the walkers.Image 2 of 15
The men that manage the roads - critical to the safety of the walkers.Image 3 of 15
The mighty ladies at mile 42.5 serving delicioius burgers for the participants!Image 4 of 15
The Brady family in Cavan who were taking names and telling you what number you were to walk by, while providing delicious treats.Image 5 of 15
Mile 12 in Drumone! Much anticipated tea and coffee. Eithna & Lally Grall have been volunteering for the last 14 years.Image 6 of 15
The Blakes of Ballinacree.Image 7 of 15
You know your getting close when you reach the Dobsons!Image 8 of 15
The Reilly Family!Image 9 of 15
The Geraghtys!Image 10 of 15
The Smith boys in Moylagh with treats for the walkers.Image 11 of 15
You could meet anyone in Fore... No, these were not walkers - the admirals from Cavan on a Stag Party - they promised they would do the walk nest year, but that might have been the Guinness!Image 12 of 15
These great ladies were at mile 17 - and what joy they were - from Moylagh, Ballinacree and Oldcastle Margaret Galligan, Maria Tuite, Rosaleen Smith, Bridget Heery, Carmel Mulally, Rose Meila, Kateryna and Cora Finnegan.Image 13 of 15
Finishers cross the line after completing the 50 Mile Challenge.Image 14 of 15
Supporters lined the streets to encourage the participants.Image 15 of 15
Whether you walked 50 miles or 5 miles, every little counts.The quiet roads of County Meath, Cavan and Westmeath came alive with determination, sweat, and community spirit, as more than 1,000 walkers laced up for the JFK 50 Mile Challenge earlier this month.
The extraordinary endurance event, which has become an annual tradition, pushed participants to their physical and mental limits – and celebrated the human drive to persevere.
All participants had one goal to raise vital funds for the three main cancer charities – Irish Cancer Society, LARCC and Palliative Care.
Starting at 6am following the cutting of the ribbon by John McDonnell and Noel Reilly, participants set out with a shared goal: to walk 50 miles within 20 hours.
Of the over 1,000 brave individuals who started the challenge, 280 determined walkers crossed the finish line after completing the full 50 miles, with the help of volunteers who lined the streets, providing refreshments, toilet breaks and moral support.
For many, it was a personal challenge; for others, it was about camaraderie, charity, or simply proving that limits are meant to be tested.
Each finisher was awarded a medal and a certificate of completion. The last walker came in at 1.40am and received the biggest cheer of all.
The JFK 50 Mile Challenge is not just about the walkers. It is a massive community effort powered by generosity and heart.
Over 300 volunteers lined the route, offering water, snacks, first aid, encouragement, and smiles to keep morale high.
Their tireless work behind the scenes made the event not only possible but deeply meaningful.
Adding to the success of the day were the 22 dedicated committee members, who spent months planning every detail, from route safety and logistics to communication and crowd support.
Their vision and commitment over the last 14 years has been instrumental in creating a seamless experience for everyone involved and making the walk into the massive success it is.
The challenge takes its inspiration from a 1963 initiative by U.S. President John F. Kennedy, who sought to encourage physical fitness among Americans.
The JFK 50 Mile Challenge in Moylagh continues that legacy, blending historical roots with local pride and modern purpose.
This year’s event was not just a test of endurance, but a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity – walkers, volunteers, and organisers all working toward something bigger than themselves.
As the sun set on a day filled with sore feet, blisters, and triumph, participants and supporters alike, we're already thinking ahead to next year.
The JFK 50 Mile Challenge has once again proven to be more than a walk – it’s a celebration of perseverance, community, and the belief that ordinary people can achieve the extraordinary.
Whether you walked one mile or fifty, volunteered at a checkpoint, or cheered from the side-lines, this year’s challenge showed community and volunteers at its best.
The final monies raised will be revealed at the presentation night on 5th July in Teddy’s Bar, Dromone.
The night will include awards to the team and the individual who has raised the most money. If any one would still like to donate, you can do so here.