Darren’s 22km lake swim for charity
On Saturday, July 25, Nenagh native Darren Dunne undertook an incredible 22km swim from Dromineer to Ballina in support of Mary’s Meals, a global charity that provides school meals to children in some of the world’s poorest communities. His effort is part of a wider North Tipperary fundraising campaign supporting this life-changing initiative.
Setting off at 6.30am with a dive from the pier at Dromineer, Darren reached Castlelough (the 12km mark) by 10.30am and completed his journey just after 2pm in Ballina. Greeted by cheers, applause, and a warm sun, Darren was welcomed ashore by family, friends, supporters, and members of the North Tipperary Mary’s Meals Committee.
Swimming for over seven hours in the cold waters of Lough Derg, Darren was motivated by the simplicity and power of the charity’s mission. “It feels great to have reached the goal,” he said. “I hadn’t heard of Mary’s Meals before this, but once I realised that just €22 can feed a child for an entire school year, I knew I had to match that with a 22km swim.”
Mary’s Meals works across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe, providing nutritious meals to children at school - meals that are often prepared by the children's own mothers. The program helps improve health and boosts school attendance, giving children hope and a path out of poverty through education.
John Egan, Chairperson of the North Tipperary Mary’s Meals Committee, praised Darren’s effort. “We are so impressed with Darren’s determination and commitment. “This was a tremendous achievement, and we also want to thank his family and friends who ensured his safety throughout the swim.”
MORE TO COME - FUNDRAISING WALK AND CYCLE
Darren’s swim is the first of three ambitious fundraising events being organised locally. On August 7, John Egan will begin a 200km walk from Thurles to Knock, aiming to arrive at the Marian Shrine on August 15. His route includes stops in Templemore, Roscrea, Birr, Ferbane, Athlone, Roscommon, Ballymote and Ballyhaunis. Volunteers are invited to join him for stages of the walk. Meanwhile, Martin Bourke will cycle through 31 parishes across South and West Tipperary having cycled Mid and North Tipperary last year.
HOW TO SUPPORT MARY'S MEALS
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the people of Nenagh and beyond, Darren has already raised over €4,000, with more donations still coming in. To contribute, visit www.marysmeals.ie. Mary’s Meals volunteers will also be collecting on the streets of Nenagh on Friday, August 8.