Seamus takes on Mizen head to Malin Head ‘virtual’ challenge for Lough Swilly RNLI

Seamus, pictured at the far back, sets off yesterday. He is supported by his RNLI colleagues.

A long-serving Lough Swilly RNLI volunteer is to walk the equivalent of Mizen Head to Malin Head to raise funds for the life saving charity.

Seamus McDaid will take on the virtual 354 mile challenge throughout March and first set off yesterday, Monday, March 1.

The Buncrana man will be following in the footsteps of his uncle, Jamsie Quirke, who was the first to take on the Mizen Head to Malin Head challenge in 1978.

While Covid 19 restrictions mean Seamus won’t be able to walk across the country, he is aiming to recreate his uncle’s impressive feat through the highways and byways of Buncrana. Seamus, who has been with Lough Swilly RNLI for 28 years, will be walking around 70 miles a week - all within Covid 19 guidelines.

It’s a big challenge but he is looking forward to it and has an ‘app’ that will show him where he’d ‘virtually’ be if he was walking from Mizen Head to Malin Head.

Seamus told the Journal how the lockdowns over the past year have given him a new appreciation for walking as a form of exercise.

“I was always very into running and athletics, but I got arthritis in my ankle. When the lockdowns came in, I got very into walking and found I really enjoyed it.”

Seamus, whose family own Topline Fashions in the town, wanted to raise some money for the RNLI, whose fundraising, like many other charities, has been impacted by the pandemic. He admits that the challenge will be ‘tough’ as he will have to complete 10 miles every day, but he’s delighted with the support received so far.

You can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lough-swillylifesaversfund2021