local

Longboarding from Malin Head via Sligo to Mizen head

Starting today, Thursday, Edward Downey (24) from Kilkenny is embarking on a journey from the northmost tip of Ireland (Malin Head) via Sligo, to its most southerly point (Mizen Head) to highlight and raise funds for a skatepark in his native city.

Edward is aiming to longboard 412 miles in 7 days; breaking the existing record of 11 days.

 The website recording the event, details and progress is www.boardman.ie This is an incredible challenge which will require outstanding physical and mental perseverance.

The young longboarder saw that although Kilkenny is the most populous city in Ireland it has no skatepark.

Members of the skating community of Kilkenny struggle to obtain, let alone attain an area in which to practice their skills.

Two groups, Urban Sports Kilkenny and Kilkenny360 were founded in recent years to support local skateboarders, rollerbladers and bmx-ers who have been campaigning for a skatepark facility for several years.

Successive Kilkenny County Councils have voiced their support for the cause but have, according to Edward, reneged on promises to deliver a skatepark.

Edward's exact route planned can be found HERE -google maps. This will see Edward travel by the N4 onto the Markievicz road, onto the N61, Bridge street, onwards to Athlone.

NOTE: The start of this marathon longboard record breaking attempt have been delayed and will now not begin until Saturday, 22 Sept.

Always be first with Sligo news - Never miss a story - Join us on Facebook