AS Celtic FC Foundation’s Hail Hail Trail kicks off today, participants throughout the world will begin clocking up the steps in their aim to walk 130 miles over the course of the next six weeks for charity, in the lead-up to the club’s 130th Anniversary on November 6.

And it’s not too late for supporters across the globe to join the Hail Hail Trail and help raise invaluable funds for our 2017 Christmas Appeal.

Among those who’ll be taking on the challenge are Marie and Clare Clark, daughter and granddaughter of legendary Celt and Lisbon Lion, John Clark.

The Hail Hail Trail holds particular significance to Marie and Clare, as it not only as it pays tribute to the 130 years of Celtic’s history, of which John played such a huge part, but they also initially approached Celtic FC Foundation with the idea of doing a virtual walking fundraising initiative.

We spoke to Clare about the origins of the Hail Hail Trail and her excitement as she prepares to start walking for Celtic FC Foundation.

Clare said: “The idea of a virtual walking fundraiser initially came about when my Mum and I were on holiday. She had been using her pedometer and had walked the equivalent of the distance across California. We thought to ourselves wouldn’t it be great if Celtic fans could do a virtual walking challenge to raise funds for Celtic FC Foundation.

“We had originally been thinking that it could be something such as walking from Glasgow to Lisbon to tie in with the 50th anniversary but there was just so much going on around May that we understood that it would probably have to take place a little later in the year.”

Speaking of May’s festivities for the 50th anniversary of the Lisbon Lions, Clare said: “The celebrations were absolutely incredible, it really was a week to remember. It was extremely special for me to see so many people show love and appreciation for my Granddad.

“I don’t think I had realised the enormity of it all and how much it meant to people until then, the Hydro in particular was unbelievable. To witness thousands of people there celebrating something that my Granddad and his friends achieved 50 years ago made my family and I so proud.

“The fact that the proceeds of the Lions Legacy campaign went to Celtic FC Foundation made it even more special. The work that they’ll do to expand their existing projects, develop projects around care for dementia and build 67 kitchens in the developing world is truly amazing.

“It really proved that charity is still at the core of the club and we’re delighted to now be taking part in the Hail Hail Trail and assisting Celtic FC Foundation’s 2017 Christmas Appeal.”

With 130 miles to cover, Clare is looking forward to getting underway. She said: “I think the Hail Hail Trail is a fantastic opportunity for Celtic fans anywhere to help raise funds for Celtic FC Foundation but it’s also a great way for people to stay fit.  

“I’m a medical student and I think walking is so important in staying healthy. Promoting health is a key objective of Celtic FC Foundation and this is a really fun and simple way to encourage people to be more active.

“I’m raring to go and plan to do some nice walks with my Mum, Granddad and Grandma to help me get towards the 130-mile mark.”

You can still register for the Hail Hail Trail HERE. You must be 13 years of age or over in order to take part and participants under-18 years of age will need to have consent/approval from their parent or legal guardian.

Upon registration you will receive further information on how to record your Hail Hail Trailprogress via the website and apps. 

The non-refundable registration fee is £15 per person. Please ensure you read the TERMS AND CONDITIONS thoroughly before registering.

To participate in the Hail Hail Trail, all we ask is that you commit to raising a minimum of £130 (after entry fee) for Celtic FC Foundation. We will provide a sponsorship pack and all participants will receive a Hail Hail Trail wristband on completion of the challenge.

All funds raised from the Hail Hail Trail will be devoted to our 2017 Christmas Appeal which reflects the very essence of why our club was set up back in 1887. We are looking to assist a host of local families and pensioners facing poverty and hardship and a number of charities who care for those experiencing the torment of homelessness or other disadvantage. Thanks to your help we can ensure that they’ll never walk alone.

If you would like more information on Celtic FC Foundation’s Hail Hail Trail, please contact [email protected] or call 0141 551 4321.