Donal’s walk is wet, windy and wonderful!

IT was possibly the worst weather that the event had ever seen, but this did not dampen the spirits of those hardy few who came out on Sunday morning to take part in the 2017 edition of the Donal Walsh Spa 6km Run/Walk Challenge.

Now in its fourth year, the day, which was organised by Spa National School to honour the memory of their former pupil, Donal, saw over 400 people descend on the school, where the message of ‘LiveLife’ shone brightly through the grey clouds.

The looped walk was officially started on the day by Donal’s parents, Fionbarr and Elma, who watched in delight as runners and walkers young and old set off into the bracing wind for an enjoyable days out.

“We wanted to honour Donal’s memory today and so the commitee worked to create an event where people would come together for a few hours, have fun and ‘ live life’ just as Donal had urged us all to do,” said school principal, Peter Lenihan.

For those who did not fancy togging out in the wind and the rain, there was plenty more to keep them occupied, with a fabulous farmers market, science experiments and live music performances from Tralee’s Seamus Harty.

“We are absolutely delighted to be back here in Spa N.S again, a place where Donal had so many happy days. Everyone had a really, wonderful day, and Donal would have absolutely loved it,” said Elma Walsh, speaking on the day.

All photos by Fergus Dennehy. Lucy Flaherty, Diane Flaherty, Rosie Falvey, Marina McGearailt, Rachel Falvey and Kate Falvey pictured at the Donal Walsh walk on Sunday morning.

Niall, Clodagh, Clara, Orna and Kelan O’Dowd at the Donal Walsh 6k walk on Sunday.

Aaron, Moira and Kevin Horgan were all smiles at the 6km walk on Sunday morning.

ABOVE: Robin Kelly, Clara O’ Dowd, Kate McGearailt and Aoife Greaney pictured looking ready at the Donal Walsh 6km Challenge on Sunday.

LEFT: Emilia and Jim Hoare at the Donal Walsh 6km run/walk on Sunday morning.