What a perfect Day! Scoil Barra’s Annual major fundraising venture, the much loved “Nature Trek” took place today amid most favourable autumnal conditions. It was all the more special because it was the 30th Anniversary of the inaugural walk launched way back in October 1985. The excitement was palpable from early on as the ‘wellie brigade’ surged on to the yards laden down with the ‘must haves’ for the day! The plastic bag of course, the spare runners just in case, the rain gear because you have to, the biscuit tins full of good old fashioned queen cakes because Mom went to the trouble, the inevitable jellies and treat size chocolate bars and the absolute longing for the walk to be over before it starts knowing only full well the reward that awaited, the PARTY!!
Over the years, Scoil Barra has hosted many celebrities as Guest speakers on Nature Trek Day. The Roll of Honour boasts an impressive list of super stars: Tony Nation, Micheál Martin, Adi Roche, Larry Tompkins, Gillian O Sullivan, Seán Óg Ó hÁilipín, John Gardiner, Linda Mellerick, Owen Murphy, and Jim Williams to mention but a few. Today’s 30th Anniversary Celebration of the Nature Trek was indeed an extra special one as the Guest of Honour on the day was none other than renowned Cork dual mega star Briege Corkery. Briege is the incredibly impressive holder of 10 All-Ireland Senior Ladies Football Medals and 5 All- Ireland Senior Camogie medals! They don’t call her the “Dual Jewel” for nothing!! Briege addressed the pupils of Scoil Barra in the hall, giving a most inspirational talk to her enthusiastic fans. This she followed up with the hosting a most interesting question and answer session. Briege finally cut the ribbon at 12 noon to officially launch the 2015 Nature Trek and set the pupils and teachers of Scoil Barra on their merry way. Good spirited banter and chatter filled the Regional Park as the 500+ Scoil Barra Army set out on their journey with great gusto and excitement. Conditions were ideal for ‘a walk in the park’ and we’re glad to report a splendiferous time was had by all and the ‘Mission was accomplished’!
Congratulations to all the walkers, their families, their very generous sponsors and to Ms. Orla Lande for co-ordinating the day’s events. Can’t wait to do it all again next year!!
