John set to go the extra mile in HACK challenge

The Binevenagh Challenge HACK is a 23-mile sponsored challenge walk through some of the most beautiful countryside in Northern Ireland’s stunning north coast.

John is a volunteer for Raynet, an amateur radio operative group who are giving support to this year’s NSPCC HACK.

John said: “I ended up volunteering for the Binevenagh HACK after NSPCC fundraiser Clare Galbraith, who had seen Raynet in action at a HACK in England, approached me. We were pleased to offer our services for the event in 2009 and again this year - like most people we are aware of the work of NSPCC and are happy to support such a worthy cause.

“On the day of the event, we plan the radio coverage for the route to ensure that all checkpoints will be in contact with the control point at Benone. We man control at the start/finish area, a radio relay point on the Bishops Road, three checkpoints, plus we will have a radio operator walking the route as a ‘sweeper’ to make sure all participants are accounted for.

“Raynet members are amateur radio operators pledged to help with communications where required in times of difficulty or disaster. We give support to organisations at various sporting and charity events which keeps our radio skills at a high level.

“I would encourage others to sign up to participate in the HACK, because apart from the serious part in supporting the NSPCC, the event is good fun, with the opportunity to make new friends, and, if not already a walker, you will discover the delights of hill walking in such a beautiful part of our countryside.”

The circular route passes through the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Sperrin Mountains, taking walkers up to the summit of Binevenagh Mountain, across the top, and back down again. The route covers a variety of terrain from quiet country roads to marshland, forest tracks and sand dunes, so requires some preparation and a reasonable level of fitness.

The HACK is an amazing challenge experience in the great outdoors which offers a valuable opportunity to support the NSPCC projects and services in Northern Ireland.

As usual there are limited places available for each walk. The registration fee is 15 and is for over 18s only. For further details and online registrations and payments, click on www.nspcc.org.uk/hack, contact the NSPCC Northern Ireland fundraising office on 028 9035 7970 or email [email protected]