Former Derry City star Tommy McCallion faced many tough challenges during a long, distinguished footballing career.
But none is tougher than the one the 38-year-old has undertaken – a series of gruelling challenges as part of a personal year-long campaign to raise money for the Foyle Hospice.
Tommy in his Derry City days.
Since the start of the year, Tommy – whose clubs also included Coleraine, Glentoran and Institute – has been working his way through a breathtaking checklist of sporting events, including the Omagh Half Marathon, the Liam Ball Triathlon, the Foyle Triathlon and the Walled City Marathon.
Still to come are the Groomsport Half Iron Man, the Waterside Half Marathon, and the Great North Run – among the 14 challenges he has set for himself for the year-long challenge.
This month will be a busy one with the Lough Neagh Triathlon, the Rock & Roll Half Marathon and the Groomsport Half Iron Man all lined up but Tommy, a Sports Development Officer with Derry City Council, is hoping his efforts will encourage others to follow suit.
He said: “Over the last few years my family, as well as many others, have been touched by the generosity and sense of care that the staff at the Hospice have shown and I would like to use this year to give something back.
“I also hope that it might encourage others to get out there and support these events and maybe take the opportunity to raise some much needed funds for charities such as the Foyle Hospice who dedicate so much of their time to caring for others.”
Among those supporting Tommy is Mayor of Derry Cllr Brenda Stevenson met up with him to hear more about his campaign.
Cllr Stevenson is encouraging everyone to lend their support for such a worthy cause.
She said: “I am so impressed by the list of events which Tommy has undertaken – he certainly hasn’t set himself an easy challenge, and I support him 100% in his efforts.”
“The Foyle Hospice is one of the city’s most valuable services and they are delighted that Tommy is going to such lengths to support their charity. It sets an amazing example to others, especially regular participants in these events who maybe wouldn’t normally consider raising money.”
Cllr Stevenson concluded: “I hope that more people will now be inspired to undertake even one of these challenges, and show their support for such a good cause. I would encourage everyone to support Tommy in his campaign.”
To find out more about how you can support Tommy’s charity challenge you can contact him via email at [email protected]
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