ONE of Ireland’s most courageous and determined young women, Joanne O’Riordan, will be the celebrity guest at what promises to be a fun-filled and stylish charity fundraiser in Killarney this Thursday.
The remarkable student from Millstreet, who is living a full life and realising all her ambitions despite being born without limbs, will choose the winning headpiece at a novel Mad Hatters Tea Party planned for Killarney Golf and Fishing Club from 1pm to 4pm.
The event will generate funds for and awareness of the annual 54321 Challenge which will see five people spending four days embarking on three cycles and climbing two mountains for one great cause.
The big event, which will take place from September 4-7, will be in aid of St Mary of the Angels in Beaufort and St John of God Charity Services who provide day, residential and respite care for children and adults with disabilities.
Those participating in the marathon challenge are Killarney women Noreen Sheahan and Fiona Collins, celebrity chef Mark Doe from Firies and Killorglin duo Michael E O’Shea and TJ O’Connor and they are currently fine-tuning their preparations for the huge physical test.
On day one of the challenge they will cycle from Tralee to the foothills of Mount Brandon before scaling the 953m peak. Day two will see them pedal their way from Dingle to Killarney and on day three they will climb Ireland’s highest mountain Carrantuohill.
The fourth and final day of the challenge will see them back on their bikes to cycle the entire Ring of Kerry route.
Last year’s 54321 Challenge raised €19,000 for the Irish Pilgrimage Trust and the organisers are hoping to at least match that amount this time out.
This Thursday’s Mad Hatters Tea Party will feature exhibitions by some of Ireland’s top milliners and dozens of spot prizes will be given away, including health and beauty treatments, lunch vouchers and gym sessions.
The winning hat, selected by No Limbs, No Limits documentary star Joanne O’Riordan, will earn its owner a hamper of beauty products worth over €100.
The Killarney public has been urged to make a special effort to go along on the day and to give as generously as possible. Donations of cakes and culinary treats will also be welcome.
