OXFAM Ireland and State Street are calling all hill-walkers and adventure race participants in Dublin to register for the new format Trailtrekker 2013.
Recognised as one of the world’s toughest charity team challenges, the trek takes place in the Mourne and Cooley Mountains on Saturday, June 15.
The funds raised will support Oxfam’s work around the world including emergency response, long-term development projects and campaigning.
In 2012, 99 hikers from Dublin took the Trailtrekker challenge. This year, for the first time, teams can opt for a 25km trek, with a 50km option still available for those looking for a greater challenge.
Trailtrekker is open to complete novices as well as seasoned hikers. Teams of between three and six people signing up for the 50km event commit to raising a minimum of $385 per person, and will be expected to complete the distance in less than 16 hours.
Teams competing in the 25km challenge have to raise
?¬265 per person, and complete the trek within 12 hours.
Over the last five years, over 1,924 Irish trekkers have completed the Trailtrekker challenge, raising over
?¬1.29 million for Oxfam. The funds raised by each 25km team could provide the equivalent of temporary shelter for four families forced to leave their homes because of conflict, while 50km teams could help provide safe drinking water for more than 400 people in an emergency.
Susan Dargan of Street Global Services – Ireland said the Oxfam Trailtrekker was unique in the support it generates among State Street’s 2,000 plus employees in Dublin, Drogheda, Kilkenny and Naas.
“This year we have 19 teams competing and lots of enthusiastic colleagues working in a support capacity along the route,
? she said.
“We have been involved with Trailtrekker over the last five years and it has been a tradition each year that teams from across our business get together to train and raise money for this event.
“This is a sponsorship that very much underpins State Street’s mission to be a force for good in our local communities and it is fantastic to see this mission being put into action with such enthusiasm.
?