PHOTOS: Sunshine And Smiles At 2026 Donal Walsh Spa 6k Challenge

THE sun shone brightly as a huge crowd turned out for another electric ‘Donal Walsh Spa 6K Challenge’ hosted by Spa NS on Sunday to honour Donal, their past pupil.

“Every year we aim to honour Donal and his inspirational message in a special way and so our amazing team of loyal volunteers and sponsors worked exceptionally hard yet again to create a community event where people would come together for a few hours, have fun and ‘live life’ just as Donal had urged us all to,” said school principal Peter Linehan.

“Huge credit must go to our super organising committee, sponsors and volunteers who have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to ensure that everything was ready and that the day ran so smoothly”, added Peter.

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In almost perfect conditions, over six hundred people visited the school which was a hive of activity with a fabulous market organised by the students.

There was a wonderful atmosphere with fun games and activities for everyone to enjoy all day and the large crowd in attendance was particularly enthralled by the exciting rocket competition.

The Parents Association had also organised a most beautiful food court on site with tasty burgers, teas, tasty treats and ice creams being served up.

Music filled the air keeping everyone entertained and in good spirits Street performer, D.J. Tony made a number of appearances and had everyone in stitches too with his hilarious comedy and magic show.

However, the main event of the day was the ‘Donal Walsh Spa 6K Challenge’ a looped run/walk starting and finishing at the school.

Donal’s parents Fionbarr and Elma were on hand to officially start the run/walk. There was a truly wonderful atmosphere as young and not so young set off to enthusiastically tackle the course.

First home in the men’s section was past pupil David Chute with local lads Cian Slattery and Eoghan Gilligan a close second and third. Local girl, Tara O Sullivan scooped first place in the ladies’ section closely followed by parent Barbara O Connor and Esther Murphy a close third.

However, there were huge cheers and rounds of applause for everyone in the long line of runners and walkers when they crossed the finish line.

Elma Walsh was thrilled with the event, “We are delighted to be back again celebrating the “Live Life” message in Spa N.S. a place where Donal had so many happy days. The committee has again organised a really fantastic day for everyone and Donal would have loved it!” Scroll down for photos…