Today marked the grand finale of the ‘CCU32 Challenge’, which saw a group of Belfast runners complete 32 marathons in 32 days in each of the 32 counties across the island of Ireland. The gruelling feat was undertaken to raise funds for local charity, The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity. 

In total, ‘CCU32’ covered over 838 miles across an expanse of 32,595 square miles. The group was led by Beechmount Harrier, Paul Tyrrell, who was elated as he crossed the line at the Mary Peters Track to complete the challenge. 

Speaking at the finish line, he said: “We are completely overwhelmed with the amount of support we have received both here at the finish line today and throughout our journey across the 32 counties. People have come out every single day to support us and that has really helped us get through each day.

“The inspiration for this challenge was simple. I work at the Children’s Hospital at the Royal and know so much about the incredible work that is done at the Children’s Cancer Unit. We wanted to do whatever we could to help, and so this idea came to life! We hope that people will continue to support us until we reach our fundraising target, which will allow The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity to purchase a much needed piece of equipment for the Hospital.”

Jacqueline Wilkinson from The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity expressed the charity’s gratitude and explained what the fundraising will be used for. 

She said: “We have been following the CCU32 challenge every step of the way over the last 32 days. We are so grateful to the whole team, including all the family and friends behind the scenes who have been with them on the road throughout. While the team have been incredibly strong and positive, we know that this has been a hugely challenging undertaking for them all.

“The Children’s Cancer Unit Charity depends entirely on public donations and fundraising efforts like this. As a charity that is guided by the medical team at the Unit, we identified the need for a new ultrasound scanner at the Children’s Hospital. With the help of the CCU32 team’s efforts we aim to make this possible, so we hope that everyone continues to show their support for this important cause.”

Donations to the CCU32 campaign can be made at www.justgiving.com/ccu32.