Walkers’ spirits not dampened by weather

A TORRENTIAL downpour didn’t deter between 250 and 300 men, women and children from taking part in the first ever Marie Keating Foundation sponsored walk, organised by the Charlie Tully Celtic Supporters’ Club.
Kenny McGorrian, PRO of the club, said there was a great level of interest from the public and it was a very enjoyable event.
“The heavens literally opened up within minutes of the walk starting and by the time we had gone 500 yards, everyone was drenched but such was the atmosphere, the jokes, the banter and joviality that the weather conditions paled into insignificance.
“As the crowds began gathering, it was evident the weather forecast wasn’t going to be a factor and by 11.30am, we already had a 100-strong crowd assembled for the walk. As each minute passed, the numbers just got bigger and bigger, with walkers coming from as far away as Offaly and Newcastle West, with others coming from Ballycar, Ennis, Sixmilebridge and Shannon.”
Guest of honour for the day was Deesh Devanney, who cut a pink ribbon just as children released helium balloons to mark the start of the walk.
While the final figure won’t be known for another week or thereabouts, it is thought the event will have raised more than €5,000 for the Marie Keating Foundation. With the walk’s success, it is anticipated that it will become an annual event in the Charlie Tully Celtic Supporters’ Club’s calendar.
Kenny said people have been very generous. “Great credit is due to everyone who participated in the walk, whether it was by taking part, giving donations or helping to organise it. The people of Shannon and the surrounding areas have again shown that in times or recession, they are not lacking generosity towards people in need,” he concluded.