A GROUP of supporters from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Texas came together to organise and take part in the inaugural WALK ON New York event. Collectively, they have raised a magnificent total of $12,000 so far.

With the hoops looking resplendent, as always, in the beautiful sunshine, the route of around 18 miles kicked off at Inwood Hill Park. The distance for the first leg was estimated at approximately seven miles but, what’s one wrong turn between friends – it ended up being closer to 10!

There was a very quick but welcome stop at The Parlour Bar, home of the New York Celtic Supporters’ Club, to meet another batch of participants. Then it was another few miles on to the famous Times Square for a Celtic sing song and Treble Treble Huddle.

Next up was Jack Dempsey’s Restaurant Bar on West 33rd Street, the base of the Manhattan No.1 CSC. Although the UEFA Champions League final had just kicked off, our supporters were not to be deterred as they embarked on the final four-mile leg of the walk.

The destination was a very fitting one – the Irish Hunger Memorial site in Battery Park, which is dedicated to raising awareness of the Great Hunger (An Gorta Mór). As a Scottish club established in 1888 with such proud Irish roots, Celtic will always be linked to these tragic events.

With 18 miles completed, it was a fantastic achievement by the supporters.

In the spirit of Brother Walfrid, monies raised will now support the homeless community in New York City, through local charity, Coalition for the Homeless and Celtic FC Foundation initiatives tackling poverty.

Thank you so much to everyone who take part in WALK ON New York and all of those who supported them with such generous donations.