R O F F L E S R U O Y E G CHALLEN
N R E C N CO How far would YOU go to help others?
That is the question that faces everyone, especially in these difficult times – and Concern is challenging people not only to have an unforgettable experience, but to make a real difference to the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable people. Concern has been fighting hunger and poverty worldwide for more than 40 years, and its life-changing work is needed now more than ever. This is why it is calling on anybody who feels up to the challenge to really push the limits of what they thought they could do in terms of physical endurance and, of course, fundraising by taking on one of its Concern Challenges either at home or abroad. For example, Irish runners can follow in the footsteps of legendary Olympian John Treacy as he blazes a trail through the streets of Addis Ababa as part of the Great Ethiopian Run in November. This unique road race, which has become the largest race of its type in Africa with fields in excess of 35,000, was the brainchild of two-time Olympic Gold Medallist Haile Gebrselassie; and since its first running in 2001 it has attracted such international names as Paula Radcliffe and Sileshi Sihine. Of course, not everyone will be able to keep up with the Irish silver medallist from the Los Angeles Olympics – but whether you walk or run the 10 km course, you will be raising some much needed funds for Concern. Still, a road race will not be for everyone - which is why Concern is also offering the option to take part in the Concern Tri-Adventure Challenge, a once in a lifetime experience which this year takes place in Uganda. Like the Great Ethiopian Run, this event also takes place in November, and it is divided into three gruelling sections mountain biking, hiking and kayaking over 300 km of
1 Great Ethiopian Run 201
– Photo by Martin Dixon
some of the most beautiful and demanding terrain in all of Africa. The three challenges include climbing to the summit of the 4,321m Mount Elgon; cycling on dirt roads through the Ugandan countryside; and kayaking amongst some of the Nile’s more remote islands. But people don’t have to travel to Africa to challenge themselves on behalf of Concern. For example, the Abseil the Aviva Challenge gives participants the chance to do something that they probably never thought possible by abseiling from the roof of Dublin’s magnificent stadium – all under the supervision of trained professionals. This unique challenge takes place on April 14 between 9 am and 4 pm, and registration costs just €35.
To find out more about these, or any of the Concern events that take place throughout the year, visit
www.concernchallenge.org
e 2011 Tri-Adventure Challeng ell – Photo by Cormac Farr Aviva Stadium 2011 –
r Photo by Peter Whittake
in the Great Paddy Lord taking part Concern 2011 Ethiopian Run in aid of – Photo by Martin Dixon