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The winter solstice wall to ‘The Paps’ takes place on Saturday, December 23, in memory of Johnny ‘the Rock’ O’Brien. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
PEOPLE are invited to take part in a trek to the ‘Paps’ before Christmas in aid of the Kerry Hospice Foundation.
As the astronomical calendar gets closer to the Winter Solstice – the shortest day of the year – this year the ancient trek takes place on Saturday morning December 23, departing at 6.45 am.
Having a Saturday Solstice will allow people to travel and have time to savour the day, marking the first day of the Christmas holidays.
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This year the charity walk will be in memory of Johnny ‘The Rock’ O’Brien, who sadly passed away on St. Stephen’s Day, 2022.
Johnny was the heart and soul of Glenflesk, a caring farmer and neighbour who lived his life on his own terms.
The Late Johnny ‘The Rock’ O’Brien, from Glenflesk Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
Waving to everyone who passed his house, with a return beep from lorries and locals. He tended to his animals with such compassion, and made sure they were safe during storms and floods.
Carpooling is encouraged parking at the Kerry Way Inn, Glenflesk, and with the kind permission of local landowners, the walk departs at Garries Bridge – the first bridge after St Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk, Meeting at 6.45am.
The long walk in darkness to the summit, has two strenuous inclines, leading to the Western Pap at 690 Metres.
At approximately 8.45am sunrise and craic begin, with Glenflesk’s finest musicians Derry and Rosie Healy, setting the pace for a Kerry polka set, followed by a rendition of ‘For these are my Mountains’ Johnny ‘The Rock’ O’Briens favourite song. Mountaineer Donie Mulcahy and crew will guide the walker to and from the summit.
These ancient sacred summits, ‘The Paps of Anú’, are in the Derrynasaggart Mountains close to the Cork-Kerry border. The Paps have long been associated with mythology, mysticism and majesty.
Donations will be collected on the morning of the walk. It is compulsory to wear a head torch, a level of fitness is required. Proper walking boots and rain gear is advised. Guides will be on duty for gear check before departure.
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