Croí, the Heart and Stroke Charity, has launched a new virtual challenge on the Wild Atlantic Way, encouraging people to get active and help those living with heart disease and stroke.
The Couch to Wild Atlantic Way challenge from Galway based Croí takes runners, walkers and joggers on a virtual journey down counties along the west coast, from Donegal to Clare.
Participants can log their daily kilometres and reach stunning discovery points along the way on an interactive map, including Malin Head, Achill Island, Cliffs of Moher and Loop Head Lighthouse.
“We are so excited to launch this stunning challenge,” said Christine Flanagan, Director of Fundraising at Croí.
“Our coastal challenges offer routes to suit all abilities over the six weeks – from the Coast of Clare at 6,000 steps a day, to a more challenging route with the Coast of Mayo at 16,500 steps a day”
Funds raised will support heart and stroke services, including Croí’s new helpline, Heartlink West.
The challenges facing people living with heart disease and stroke are now greater than any that have come before, and the Croí health team is experiencing increased demand for support services.
This event will help Croí to continue to respond to the needs of the community during this difficult time, when people living with heart disease or stroke are at greater risk if affected by COVID-19.
Like all charities, the public health restrictions imposed for the COVID-19 crisis have severely hampered Croí’s ability to raise funds. But like others it is turning to online events like this challenge to make up the loss.
This challenge is supported by Laya Healthcare, where Cillian Morris, Business Development Manager said they are “proud to support the charity in continuing to promote the importance of heart health in a virtual world”.
He described ‘Couch to the Wild Atlantic Way’ as an “inspired idea”, and added that they hope to get record numbers of people involved to raise vital funds for the charity.
“Our healthcoach team are on hand to create personalised fitness and nutrition plans for members who want to prepare to take on the tougher challenges along the route.
“I’m going to give the Donegal Coast challenge a go, it’ll be good training for when I can get back up there in person!”
The virtual challenge runs for six weeks, launching June 10th. Registration costs €15 each or €40 for families, with everyone receiving a special eco-friendly Croí Couch to Wild Atlantic Way medal.
Discover the beauty of Ireland’s West Coast by taking part in Croí’s Couch to Wild Atlantic Way. Register now at www.croi.ie/WildAtlanticWay.
