"What is to give light must endure burning" Viktor Frankl

Greetings all,

Kev Leahy here asking for your generous support with my fundraising efforts for Down Syndrome Kerry (DSK). Three years ago, my beautiful and vibrant niece Emilie was born with down syndrome. It is for her and others living with down syndrome that i have decided to take on this challenge. An avid adventurer and lover of all things outdoors, I have committed to running over 1000kms stretching from the wilds of Kerry to Arctic temperatures of - 30°c in Sweedish Lapland.

Like so many organisations, now more than ever DSK are struggling to raise money. These funds provide much needed services to ensure people with down syndrome are given the education, support and friendship needed to make their futures as bright and independent as possible. For the most part, running is a solitary game, but for this task i am relying on the support of each and every one of you to reach this goal.

The Ancient Warrior Trail on the 11th of July marks the first of three testing events. Reconnecting with my celtic past , i will be running 120kms across the best of Kerry's mountains, covering a trail where past pagans and pilgrims once journeyed.

Following this, on the 4th of September, i will be running through the long night tackling 200kms of the spectacular Kerry Way Ultra.

On the 6th of February, the third and final challenge will take me across the Arctic Circle to Sweedish Lapland. Last year, inspired by the great Arctic explorer and Kerryman Tom Crean I completed and won the 160km Yukon ultramarathon. This time I will be setting my sights on the mammoth Lapland Arctic Ultra 500km ultramarathon which will take place over a gruelling 6-8 days. This race is self supported and will involve me pulling all my provisions on a sled.

This will be by far my biggest running endeavour. Training has been ongoing for months and well as continue well into January. As well as the physical training I’m preparing the logistics off getting to the start line with all the food and equipment required for a 10 day unsupported run in the arctic wilds.

. My goal is to raise €20000 for DSK, the task is to run 1000kms. Adversity has the capacity to reveal character and spirit. Those living with down syndrome are a testament to that. I hope that during this challenge, adversity will be my greatest teacher. A sincere thank you in advance for your support.

Best Regards