Posted Date: 04-Feb-2010 Thurs

The inaugural Ballyliffin Coastal Challenge was launched at a reception in the Ballyliffin Lodge Hotel Friday, 8th January attended by local business interests, Inishowen AC members and Carndonagh Hospice Group, the listed charity to benefit. This exciting event will be run in the confines of the village and the Isle of Doagh, moving through the walkway at Pollan Bay and arriving back at the village. Race date is April 3rd (Easter Saturday) with a 2pm start. Entries can be taken online in the coming weeks via www.visitballyliffin.com. Speakers at the launch evening underlined the nature of the challenge and indeed invited walkers/runners/joggers to prepare to take the challenge, making it truly a family occassion.

Speakers included Michael Mc Laughlin, Ballyliffin Development, Patsy Mc Gonagle, Irish Olympic team manager and Niall Mc Gee, Inishowen AC. It's a case of all shoulders to the wheel in the months ahead as the organisers create awareness of what certainly will become an annual event. Ballyliffin has become famous as a result of two world class golf courses and its beautiful scenery in the shadow of Malin Head. The Coastal Challenge will open up those qualities to a larger percentage of the population, not only in the North West but further afield .

Sponsor cards will also be available in the coming weeks from Gertie Monagle, Carndonagh ( 086 1535091 ), so a last word on the event is to watch the progress per www.visitballyliffin.com. Race entry forms will also be available at Atlantic Stores, Ballyliffin, in addition to online entry. Walking groups are particularly welcome to take the challenge; so maybe that's the New Year's resolution that the public should consider when the snow disappears - beginning to prepare for a healthier option in 2010.