Team Donegal Oil Women's Only Multi-Sport Fun Event raises €5,000

Donegal Sports Partnership, with sponsorship from Arthur McMahon of Donegal Oil Company, hosted the second Women's Only Multi-Sport Adventure Challenge at Gartan Outdoor Education and Training Centre in April.

The event aimed to promote outdoor activity among women of all ages and fitness levels, attracting over 250 registrants, with just over 200 participating.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Gartan Lake, participants demonstrated their resilience and determination by completing a 4k run, 20k cycle, and 1k kayak. For many, this was their first experience with such an event.

Event Co-ordinator Shaun Stewart expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Witnessing the incredible achievements of all the women was thrilling. This race is about more than crossing the finish line; it's about pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and empowering one another. We are immensely proud of every participant and the bonds they've formed."

Arthur McMahon, Managing Director of Donegal Oil Company; Dr. Marie Hainsworth of Donegal Domestic Violence Services; Graceann McGarvey of Grace Ann Consultancy, PR & Marketing Agency; and Myles Sweeney, CEO of Donegal Sports Partnership (DSP). Missing from the photo: Shaun Stewart, Event Coordinator, and Rory Kennedy, Smart Renewables

The organising committee, including Myles Sweeney of Donegal Sports Partnership, Arthur McMahon of Donegal Oil Company, Rory Kennedy of Smart Renewables, Graceann McGarvey of Grace Ann Consultancy Marketing & PR, and Shaun Stewart, were delighted with the turnout and with the €5000 raised for the Donegal Domestic Violence Service (DWDVS) and the Donegal Women’s Centre, with each charity receiving €2500.

All registration fees and donations went directly to the charities, enabling them to extend their counselling services to more women in need. Last year's event also benefited these charities, and this year's donation will further support their crucial work in the community.

Arthur McMahon of Donegal Oil Company highlighted the event's success.

"The atmosphere was electric, and Gartan was buzzing with inspiration and determination. Women came from all across the County, Northern Ireland, Sligo, Cork, and Galway,” he said. “The geographical reach was amazing, and we're excited to do it again next year."

Donegal Sports Partnership CEO Myles Sweeney added, "Events like this are vital for providing opportunities for women of all abilities to participate, aligning with Sport Ireland's National Women in Sport strategy. We are extremely proud of every woman who challenged herself to complete the event."

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the staff, volunteers, and supporters, including the Donegal Sports Partnership team, Gartan Outdoor Education Centre, Eco Atlantic Adventures, and numerous individuals and organisations who contributed to the event's success.