Trailtrekker 2013 now open for team entries for 50km route and new 25km route Oxfam Ireland and State Street are calling all hill-walkers and adventure race participants to register for the new format Trailtrekker 2013, recognised as one of the world’s toughest charity team challenges. Now in its fifth year, the trek takes place in the Mourne and Cooley Mountains on Saturday 15 June 2013 and funds raised will support Oxfam’s work around the world including emergency response, long-term development projects and campaigning. For the first time teams can opt for a 25km trek, with a 50km option still available for those looking for a greater challenge. Trailtrekker is open to complete novices as well as seasoned hikers. Teams of 3-6 people signing up for the 50km event commit to raising a minimum of €385 per person, and will be expected to complete the distance in less than 16 hours. Teams competing in the 25km challenge commit to raising €265 per person, and completing the trek within 12 hours.
Over the last five years, over 1,924 Irish trekkers have completed the Trailtrekker challenge, raising over €1.29 million for Oxfam. The funds raised by each 25km team could provide the equivalent of temporary shelter for four families forced to leave their homes because of conflict, while 50km teams could help provide safe drinking water for more than 400 people in an emergency.
Oxfam Ireland’s Trailtrekker is part of a growing worldwide phenomenon of 15 events in 12 countries. Supported in Ireland by State Street, the Oxfam Trailtrekker is a unique fund-raising effort that supports Oxfam’s mission to empower individuals, communities and organisations to create a future that is secure, just and free from poverty.
Susan Dargan, Head of State Street Global Services – Ireland said that the Oxfam Trailtrekker is unique in the support it generates among State Street’s 2,000 plus employees in Dublin, Drogheda, Kilkenny and Naas.
“This year we have 19 teams competing and lots of enthusiastic colleagues working in a support capacity along the route. We have been involved with Trailtrekker over the last 5 years and it has been a tradition each year that teams from across our business get together to train and raise money for this event. This is a sponsorship that very much underpins State Street’s mission to be a force for good in our local communities and it is fantastic to see this mission being put into action with such enthusiasm.
Having looked on from the sidelines for the last couple of years, I look forward to completing the 25km trek next month with the State Street team, and I wish all of my fellow participants the best of luck.”
Oxfam Ireland’s Chief Executive Jim Clarken said that State Street makes a very important contribution to Oxfam’s work through this partnership.
“We are very grateful for State Street’s support, which is helping to bring hope and deliver real change to the lives of people affected by poverty and injustice around the world. Their employees contribute greatly to the success of Trailtrekker through their participation. This is our fifth year of Trailtrekker and we are delighted to introduce the 25km route alongside the 50km event, the perfect opportunity to get active and make a positive difference.”