Epic fundraising trip for Ennis jet-skiers

AN Ennis businessman has become the first person to circumnavigate Ireland on a jet-ski after spending almost 60 hours at sea in often treacherous conditions.
Darren Hayes and Liam Cleary arrived back in Liscannor Bay on Saturday morning, from where they set off the previous Sunday. Liam had to pull out of the challenge for part of the day on Friday after sustaining a back injury but managed to complete the final day of the journey on Saturday. They undertook the challenge to help raise funds for Tipperary, Limerick and Clare for Cystic Fibrosis (TLC4CF). The pair endured seas of up to 20ft in height, suffered technical problems, had to take shelter from the weather on several occasions and got stuck in mud for a time in Cork. Despite Liam having to withdraw for a short time, his high-seas partner managed to complete the challenge, becoming the first person to circumnavigate Ireland on a jet-ski.
“The first day was the toughest. We didn’t think we would get back on the jet-skis again after travelling from Galway to Killybegs. It was very tough but the reception we got in Donegal was incredible. It was a great boost and gave us the encouragement to continue,” Darren said.
While travelling from Arklow to Dunmore East, the pair encountered winds up to force 7 and waves as high as 20ft.
“Liam had to withdraw with an injury for part of Friday’s stage but he was determined to finish the challenge,” Darren Hayes added.
Support team leader and TLC4CF spokesman, Seamus Clancy said that he appreciated the efforts of both jet-skiers.
“There were some great times but some low times too. In Killybegs, after 12 hours at sea, we never thought the lads would go on but they are two very determined lads and they did. The generosity around the country is remarkable and that really helped us. What the lads have done for our charity is incredible and we will never forget that,” he said.
“It is very demoralising for the parent of a child with any sort of disability to stand on a street corner with a bucket and ask for money. We have to do it and we will continue to do so when our Government won’t provide these essential facilities for children,” the Corofin man and former Clare footballer added.
TLC4CF is involved in a drive to collect €4.2 million to construct an in-patient and out-patient facility at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital in Dooradoyle in Limerick. The charity has already collected €1.2m for the unit.