Twin brothers Graham and Malcolm Reilly from Longford have been climbing Knocknarea Mountain every day in September to support the Irish Cancer Society.
After losing their mother due to a battle with cancer in 2012, the pair decided to do something special for what would have been her birthday on September 1.
Speaking to the Sligo Weekender on Day 29 of the fundraiser, Graham recalled that they were in Strandhill one day, saw Knocknarea, and decided to climb it every day in September to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society. “One thing led to another, and it’s been a journey I’ll never forget.”
As they had only one more climb left as part of the fundraiser, Graham stated that the enthusiasm of doing the activity kept them invested by the first ten days, but by day twenty, it was more of a struggle, and that’s where the mental strength kicked in.
“It’s great we are able to do this, and we’re healthy enough to be able to do it together. It’s a great achievement to be able to do that in thirty days.”
Every day, the brothers have followed the same route: starting at the rugby car park, heading up the lane, turning right, and climbing the wooden steps. The pair would go up the mountain at 5 am Monday to Wednesday, 6:30pm on Thursday and Friday, and 10am on weekends.
For full coverage and comments from Graham, read this week’s Sligo Weekender out on Thursday, October 1, in stores and online.
