On the evening of Sunday, October 13, a group of Foundation supporters – which included former Celts, Peter Grant, Neil Lennon and a member of the Foundation team – arrived in northern Spain, to begin their five-day, 116km Camino de Santiago Trek.
Together, this incredible group have already raised a phenomenal net total in the region of £40K, with fundraising ongoing. If you’d like to get behind their efforts, you can still donate HERE.
Participants experienced their first taste of the famous Camino pilgrimage route on Monday, October 14, with a 22km trek from Sarria to Portomarin, where they met many fellow pilgrims along the way.
Tuesday saw the group chalk up another 24km, as they began with a crossing of the Rio Miño, Galicia’s longest river. Their route involved a steady ascension throughout the day, before descending towards Palas de Rei.
Their third day on trail was the longest, with a 29km trek on to Arzua, taking in a beautiful forest track, picturesque villages, medieval hamlets and many challenging climbs.
Thursday, the penultimate day of the group’s challenge, covered another 22km, including more forest track and calm country roads in to Amenal.
The final 16kms were completed on Friday afternoon, as the group finally arrived in the wonderful city of Santiago de Compostela. They were greeted with applause as they reached their destination whilst singing a beautiful and emotional rendition of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, a moment that will live long in the memory of each and every one of them.
We would like to thank all 12 of our wonderful participants for their commitment, dedication, perseverance and support of Celtic FC Foundation:
Karen Baillie
Gerry Devanney
Peter Grant
Charles Jarvis
Neil Lennon
David Logue
Jane Maguire
Gerry McBride
Alex McDermott
John Mulhern
Eamonn Murphy
Conor O’Malley
The group’s arrival in Santiago was made even more special, as they were joined for the final section of the Trek by another incredible supporter, Des Tinney, who was completing his own personal Camino challenge. Over the previous fortnight, Des had ran around 50km a day across the Camino pilgrimage route in support of the Foundation. We thank Des for his monumental efforts.
With their challenge complete and their departure not scheduled until Sunday, the group were able to relax and enjoy some time in Santiago’s old town on Saturday, which included turning a local bar green and white for the day, as they took in Celtic’s match against Aberdeen.
Jane Maguire, Head of Foundation and Trek participant, said: “It was an honour to share this wonderful experience with such a special group of people. The camaraderie, compassion, support and mutual respect were outstanding and it was humbling to hear each personal story and reason for participation in the Trek.
“It was most definitely a challenge but also a very spiritual and rewarding experience with lots of laughter along the way.
“I’d like to personally thank each and every pilgrim for their phenomenal support of Celtic FC Foundation and the difference this will make to so many lives through our project delivery.
“I hope they are now enjoying some well-deserved rest and feeling proud of their magnificent achievement. Buen Camino team!”
If you’re interested in taking part in future Celtic FC Foundation fundraising challenges or want to find out more, please email [email protected] or call 0141 551 4321.
