Visually-impaired runners complete 32-mile cross-country in Ireland

“Challenge 32 pushed me farther than any of my adventures before this for sheer physical exertion and mental stamina. I had nothing left at the end,” said Caroline Casey.

Caroline Casey and Tony Ward, two visually impaired runners, recently completed an incredible 32-mile challenge across 32 counties in Ireland. They hailed the spirit of Irish adventure and the abilities of disabled people as their inspiration.

The challenge kicked off in county Monaghan and finished in Dublin. Caroline and Tony ran with guide runners and over 30 locals from each area, each of whom raised Euro 100 for charity. The event lasted for two gruelling days in which they ran an eight-minute mile every hour for 32 hours. Along the way, near injuries and poor weather conditions threatened to hamper the challenge, but that did not hinder the two intrepid runners.

The Challenge 32 event was sponsored by, “Imag!ne”. Rotary International, Ireland assisted the event. With aid from the Irish Air Corps, Royal Air Force helicopters, Garda, and Police Service of Northern Ireland escorts, the two runners reached each county in the allotted time.

The Euro 100,000 fund raised during the challenge was later donated to three major Irish charities – Blind Sports Ireland, The Jack and Jill Foundation and P.H.A.B (Northern Ireland) Inclusion Matters.