A charity walk along the Old Kenmare Road will take place on Saturday, December 27, to raise funds for Kerry Mountain Rescue Team, with the Sam Maguire Cup set to join walkers for the day.

The 17km trek is being organised by well known fundraiser and musician Derry Healy, James Cahill and their supporters.

The event was inspired by Killarney man James Cahill, who was seriously injured in a fall while descending Carrauntoohil in July 2016 and was rescued by Kerry Mountain Rescue Team.

He was treated at the scene before being airlifted to University Hospital Kerry and later spent months in rehabilitation.

Walkers will set off from the Upper Torc Car Park at 9.30am and follow the Old Kenmare Road to Kenmare.

Along the route, there will be a stop at the restored Sheep Shed at Eskamucky Glen for music and a set dance with the Sam Maguire Cup.

A free bus transfer will be available from Kenmare back to Killarney, with booking required in advance.

Donations can also be made directly to Kerry Mountain Rescue Team, which operates on a voluntary basis and relies heavily on fundraising and public support.

Killarney Valley AC has announced the return of its popular Couch to 5K initiative for January 2026.

The eight-week programme is designed as a safe and progressive way for participants to move from walking to jogging. The club’s qualified coaching team is inviting people to sign up for the initiative.
Training sessions will take place every Tuesday and Thursday evening at the brightly lit Killarney Valley AC Arena. The club emphasises a great atmosphere, with motivation, encouragement, and teamwork being key to participant success on the dark evenings.
Over a thousand people have completed the course since the track opened seven years ago. This year’s programme will culminate with a 5K Park Run at Killarney House on March 5.
Proceeds from the initiative will be used by the volunteer-run club for track repairs, with a full refurbishment planned for the summer of 2026.
Killarney Valley AC currently has 500 members of all ages and capabilities. The club recently installed new pole vault equipment and now has 23 vaulters. A recent quiz held at The Laurels helped raise funds to purchase extra poles for the vaulting team.
Registration for the Couch to 5K programme is available online, and early registration is advised as places are limited.
https://killarneyvalleyac.ie/events/couch-to-5k-2026/