Charity challenge
The 15th annual Kerry Charity Challenge takes place from April 9th to 11th. There'll be a choice of challenges: climb Carrauntoohil in the company of an experienced guide, walk above the Gap of Dunloe, hike a full section of the Kerry Way or choose from a range of easier, low-level walks.
The cost is €199, which includes two nights’ BB, with dinner one evening, plus entertainment. Proceeds go to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, Fighting Blindness and the National Council for the Blind of Ireland. Call Michael Sutton on 086-4009989 or e-mail michaelsutton1949@ gmail.com.
Coillte closures
After the bad weather of the past few months, access roads and trails on some Coillte sites have been damaged. As a result, until further notice there’s no vehicle access to Devil’s Glen, in Co Wicklow, and the river walk in nearby Avondale has been closed. Also, deer are being culled in Ballinastoe Wood this month. Its trails are out of bounds overnight until February 28th, as firearms will be in use between 11pm and 7.30am. coillteoutdoors.ie.
War in Wicklow
The inaugural Wicklow Adventure Race (War), which takes place on April 17th, includes two mountain runs over 18km, three cycle routes over 53km and a two-kilometre kayak on Lough Dan. There’s also a short course for less adventurous participants. They’ll start and finish at the Upper Lake car park at Glendalough. Fees are €68 for the long event and €58 for the short one. See glendalough.wicklowadventurerace.com.
fbradley@irishtimes.com