Galway’s Ger O’Connor is taking a break from the glamour of the catwalk to tackle the Gael Force West adventure challenge and raise money for suicide prevention and bereavement Charity Console.
Ger, who is married to Mandy Maher of Catwalk Modelling Agency, is more familiar with producing chic fashion shows than tough athletic challenges.
However, he is willing to take on the six gruelling stages (67km ) of Europe’s largest one-day adventure race on August 17 in order to help the Galway branch of his favourite charity Console.
“Console do fantastic work in Galway and throughout the country but they need support so they can continue to provide help and counselling for people in crisis. That’s why I’m asking people to support me in this challenge,” said Ger.
Mr O’Connor is busy distributing sponsorship card throughout Galway. He can also be sponsored on-line through the My Charity website on www.mycharity.ie/event/ger_oconnor_2013_event/ He has been training hard for the race where competitors cover some of the most demanding and magnificent areas of Connemara and Mayo on foot, by kayak and by bike.
“The race begins with a dawn beach run, followed by kayaking across Killary Harbour, taking in a run to the summit of Croagh Patrick as well as a cycle and final run over Drummin Hill and into historic Westport Quay,” said Ger.
Nationwide professional Suicide Prevention and Bereavement Charity Console offers counselling services and 24-hour helpline support to people in crisis and those bereaved by suicide (Freephone 1800 201 890 ).
The charity has full-time counselling centres in Galway (091 769942 ), Limerick, Cork, Dublin, Wexford, Kerry and Mayo. It also offers services in Kildare, Ballina and Athlone and has recently opened a service in London.
Counselling, advice and general support is available for any individual, couples, groups, families or children who have been affected by suicide.
Console can be reached at any time on freephone 1800 201 890 and many resources and useful information can be found at www.console.ie
