Banagher's Conor (9) completes 18km hike in aid of outdoor pool

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Nine-year-old Banagher native Conor Horn has completed a hike from the Slieve Bloom mountains to Kinnitty to raise funds for the Banagher outdoor community pool.

Setting off in the early hours of Sunday morning (May 4), Conor and his family proceeded to hike a total of 18.42km over the course of five hours.

The Horn family has set up an IDonate page ahead of the challenge, which has now amassed €3,482 of their €1,000 goal. Conor has also raised a sum in cash.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent ahead of the challenge, Barbara Horn said: "It all started because I am taking part in a climb of Carrauntoohil in aid of the Banagher outdoor pool, and Conor decided he wanted to do his part as well.

""We're incredibly proud of Conor. He used his own initiative to think of a unique event, and to raise money for a cause that he cares about. He loves swimming, and the overnight hike, he came up with an event that was also an adventure!"

In an update shared to their fundraising page, Conor's mum Barbara said: "Mission completed! What an adventure. Conor would like to thank everyone who donated to the swimming pool fund, he is absolutely delighted with your generosity it really means so much, thank you.

"We have a few extra photos and videos of Conor's amazing adventure which we will share very soon. May the force be with you."

Donations remain open at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/may-the-fourth-mountain-march