IT started on the Late Late Show – well on Ryan Tubridy’s radio show actually – but it ended at the summit of Carrauntoohil yesterday as the popular chat show host realised a long-time ambition to climb Ireland’s highest peak.
And KillarneyToday.com has exclusive snapshots from the big day out.
Tubs had indicated on his morning show on RTÉ Radio One that he wanted to take on the challenge and he was flooded with offeres and advice on how to prepare and conquer the 1,039m peak.
The call that impressed him most was from Madeline Walsh who runs the Killarney-based Mountain Adventure Walks company with her dad, Maurice, and she filled him in, live on air, on how to prepare and what to expect.
Madeline was chuffed when Ryan accepted her offer of a guided climb and, true to his word, he turned up yesterday to join her and her father on the big adventure.
They scaled the mountain via Brother O’Shea’s Gully and descended by the Heavenly Gates but the weather played spoilsport and the constant heavy rain dramatically impacted on viability.
“The weather was very challenging all day. There was persistent rain and very strong winds at the summit,” Madeline told KillarneyToday.com.
Despite not being able to enjoy the stunning scenery, Ryan had a wonderful day out and he shared stories and songs with Madeline and Maurice on the way up and on again the way down.
“He was engaging company and so lovely. He really is great fun and we had a fantastic time,” said Madeline who said Ryan promised to do it all again when the weather is more favourable and he can take in the views.
Although he is an avid walker, it was his first time climbing Carrantuohill and he couldn’t let the occasion pass without tucking into an apple tart provided by Esther Cronin at Cronin’s Yard.
It was a flying visit for the TV and radio host who returned to Dublin this Friday morning and he can share all the details of his exciting adventure with listeners when his morning show returns.
