Big Crowds at Upperchurch Walking Weekend

    The fourth Upperchurch Walking Weekend once again drew a large number of walkers to the picturesque hills last weekend despite torrential rain on Saturday. The less hardy walkers got their opportunity on Sunday as weather conditions improved, resulting in record numbers on all walks on the second day.

    The official opening on Friday night saw a packed Upperchurch Hall entertained and informed by talks and slideshows from Fr. Tomás O’ Connell on the Santiago de Compostella Pilgrimage Walk and by Mr. John Gerard O’ Dwyer on Walking Tourism. South East Mountain Rescue also had their brand new Rescue Vehicle on display.

     Saturday morning saw almost seventy walkers ignore the driving rain as they started the 18 km feature Knockalough – Dooree walk. While the climbs and weather conditions at this time of year are par for the course, the crossing of rapidly rising streams produced an unexpected difficulty. Quick thinking brought makeshift bridges made from bale trailers into action and a number of aquatic obstacles were overcome. Despite the continuous rain, another seventy walkers took part in shorter walks later on in the day.

    Sunday turned out bright and sunny and four further walks drew a total of over 250 walkers. Upperchurch has three National Loop walks which are the foundation of the weekend’s activities and extended versions of these are used for the longer walks. All involved on both days were treated to a hot meal afterwards in Upperchurch Hall. A noteworthy feature this year was the large number of visitors from outside Co. Tipperary. People who might be interested in providing accommodation for next year are asked to contact the organisers. Next years event will be held on November 5th, 6th and 7th.

    Donations for this year’s event are going to Sr. Eileen Dwyer, Drombane, of the Sisters of Mercy, to alleviate the hardship caused by a recent tsunami in the Tonga Islands. Contributions can be made to any member of the Walking Committee.

   The organisers would like to thank all who helped, especially the local landowners. The assistance of the Dept. of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Shannon Development and Fáilte Ireland is also appreciated.

   There will be a Night Walk in Upperchurch before Christmas. Please note that the date has not yet been finalised.