Derek Daly memorial to be virtual event this year

This year Garrycastle GAA club will host its annual Derek Daly memorial event on St Stephen’s Day in a very different manner than previous years.

A son of Margaret and Alo Daly, and brother of Alan, Derek was a very popular figure within the Garrycastle club and indeed further afield until his sudden death at a young age in May 2011.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions the usual large gatherings seen attending the event over the past few years just wouldn’t be able to congregate in a safe way.

The event has become a merging of families and competing athletes, complemented by the completion of the neighbouring Old Rail Trail walking/cycling track. It has truly embedded itself as a Christmas tradition for members and friends of Garrycastle GAA since it was first introduced in 2012.

With its growing support from young and old over the past number of years, cancelling the event wasn’t an option for organisers and a ‘virtual’ version of the event will now happen in its place.

Participants can run or walk 5kms or cycle 10kms. It will also be an opportunity for the club to raise money for local organisation 'The National Learning Network'.

Through iDonate Charity Fundraising Ireland, people will be able to donate their usual entry fee of €10 for individuals or €20 per family. Photos of participants will be showcased on the club’s social media pages over the weekend of December 26/27. With the event now happening on an online platform, the club hopes to see participants donning the ‘green and red’ from all over the world.

More information on how to donate and submit photos will be available on http://www.garrycastle.gaa.ie/ in the coming weeks.