Caps To The Summit – A Unique And Historic Event Launched
Current Ireland stars Ian Madigan and Nora Stapleton joined Alan Kerins (Alan Kerins Projects), Denis Hickie (patron to Gorta-Self Help Africa) and Irish rugby greats Tony Ward and Ollie Campbell in St. Stephen’s Green today to launch the unique and historic ‘Caps to the Summit’ event.
An event that will see 32 Irish rugby heroes hike to the summit of Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrantuohill, in hope to raise much needed funds for the inspirational but vulnerable communities in Africa.
Old out-half rivals Tony Ward and Ollie Campbell will meet again when they join the star-studded line-up of climbers organised to support the hike in the picturesque surroundings of Keel, Co. Kerry.
‘Caps to the Summit’ is a two-day event with the climb up Carrantuohill taking place on Friday, September 11 and the official dinner and Rugby World Cup preview night, hosted by Newstalk 106-108FM, taking place on Saturday, September 12.
Individuals and companies can sign up to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience and partake with the stars, by raising €;2,500 through sponsorship or self-funding. All funds raised will go to the Alan Kerins Projects and Gorta-Self Help Africa.
Speaking at the launch of Caps to the Summit, event founder and former Galway GAA star Alan Kerins said: “I’m delighted to be launching the unique Caps to the Summit event today. It’s really going to be a great few days in Keel and I’ve been blown away by the support shown by players, sponsors and members of the Keel community to date.
“We’re encouraging individuals and companies to get involved in what is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Climbing to the top of the highest mountain in Ireland, in the stunning surroundings of Keel, with stars like Tony Ward and Ollie Campbell, there really won’t be anything like it!
“The aim is to raise to €;150,000 and all money collected will be invested in the inspirational work carried out by our partners in Africa and here in Ireland.
“I’d like to thank Ian (Madigan), Nora (Stapleton), Denis (Hickie), Ollie and Tony for being here today to assist with the launch. I’d particularly like to wish Ian the very best of luck in his preparations for the upcoming Rugby World Cup.
“I would also like to once again thank our main sponsor Corrib Oil/Suttons Oil, they have been a major sponsor over the last number of years and without their financial support the life changing work in Africa that is being carried out would not be possible.”
Eugene Dalton, CEO of Corrib Oil, commented: “We are delighted once again to be sponsoring the great work done by Alan Kerins and his Projects. It’s very satisfying for us to know our financial contribution is making a difference in the lives of those who need it. We’re really looking forward to the climb in September and particularly looking forward to meeting the big names lined up to take part.”
Caps to the Summit is proudly supported by Portwest, Newstalk 106-108FM, the Irish Independent, Keel Community Council, PSG Communications and Hewlett-Packard.
Climbers will be accepted on a first come, first served basis as spaces are limited. For more information on how to join the climb, please visit www.capstothesummit.com.