Belfast's Oisín McVicker takes on 'Waterworks 100' charity challenge this weekend
Find out how you can support Oisín 👇
Last updated 7th Dec 2023
Coach and founder of GaelFit Limited, Oisín McVicker is set to undertake his fourth Christmas challenge this weekend, in support of the North Belfast Community Food Bank.
Last year Oisín climbed 25 laps of Cave Hill Country Park - the equivalent height of Mount Everest, raising over £9,000.
This year's challenge is the "Waterworks 100" which will see Oisín run 100 laps of the top pond of the Waterworks in under 36 hours - completing 100 miles which is equivalent to almost four marathons.
For someone who has never completed one marathon, this is quite the challenge!
Speaking to Cool FM and Downtown Radio ahead of the big day, Oisín said: "The plan is to start Friday morning at 5am and run straight through to 7pm, then take a break until after the park run on Saturday, starting again at 11.30am and then running until I’m done. I’m hoping to be finished up for 6pm/7pm."
Supporting The North Belfast Community Foodbank once again, over 17 local community groups and schools will benefit from funds raising.
“The North Belfast Community Foodband are an amazing Belfast charity that do incredible work," Oisín explains. "I’ve seen first-hand the work that they do, providing food and supplies for families that are struggling year round.
“We all know Christmas can be a difficult time, trying to afford presents, food, gas and electric, so by doing a challenge over the past four years, it gives others the opportunity to support the charity too."
“I organise the challenge, and I’ll run the 100 miles, but I’m going to have the whole community supporting me. I have 6/7 local schools coming to run alongside me on Friday and then a selection of sports clubs, friends and family also joining on Saturday. It does bring a real community atmosphere to the event.”
“I never thought when I started this three years ago that it would still be going, each year the challenge has got a bit harder. We started off with 4x4x8, then the following year the Cycle Climb Cycle, and last year the My Everest challenge.
Despite being a personal trainer and all round sports fan, nerves have started kick in a little for Oisín.
“This year is going to be more of a mental battle, the most I’ve trained for is 15-20K runs, so it will be draining, but the people I’ll have round me it will be a lot easier.”
“I really do appreciate the support from people both in and outside of the local community” he adds.
“These challenges wouldn’t be possible without those local businesses that support each year, I really would like to thank them!”
Oisín Waterworks 100 Challenge kicks off Friday 8th December at 5am - if you would like to donate and support Oisín, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/north-belfast-community-foodbank
GOOD LUCK!
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