Conquer the current in aid of Mallow Search and Rescue
UP TO 40 WEIRD AND WONDERFUL RAFTS SET TO TAKE TO THE RIVER BLACKWATER ON SUNDAY
THE Mallow Search and Rescue (MSAR) unit has issued a final call for competitors to register for its annual fundraising raft run, which will take place this coming Sunday.
At 1pm a flotilla of weird and wonderful craft will take to the River Blackwater at Mallow Bridge for the six-mile trek to Killavullen – with event organisers expecting more than 40 craft to take part in this years run.
Unit PRO Willie Walsh said they hope to raise up to €12,000 through the event, money that will be used to fund its activities for the year ahead.
Run on a voluntary basis, the unit travels the length and breadth of the country each year assisting in search and recovery missions at the request of emergency services and affected families.
However, as they receive no statutory government funding, events such as the raft run are an important vehicle for raising money for travel expenses, ongoing training and the cost of updating and purchasing life-saving equipment.
Mr Walsh said that these costs can run to up to €60,000 per annum.
“On average, we get tasked to up to 30 search missions each year. Our annual fuel bill alone can run to €10,000 and we do not even get the VAT back on that,” he said.
With the run just days away, Mr Walsh urged people to make their final preparations, get their crew rosters together and register for the run, which has been moved forward from its traditional St Patrick’s weekend slot.
“The river can be a cold place to be in March and if the weather is bad it cam make the water flow unpredictable. The forecast is looking good for the weekend, so we are hoping for a good turnout,” said Mr Walsh.
“Last time out we had more than 200 people take part in the run on more than 30 rafts raising more than €9,000 in the process. With the change of date we are hoping that more people will take part and we can equal and even surpass that amount this year.”
He thanked those who take part in and support the run each year.
“We hope to see them, along with some new rafters, on Sunday. Even if you can not take part, come along, enjoy the spectacle and donate a few bob,” said Mr Walsh.
Entry forms and sponsorship cards are available from members each evening between 7pm-9pm at the units base on Broom Lane. More information is also available on their dedicated Facebook page.