Mayo man close to reaching Rome on 2,200km journey through Europe for charity

Mayo man Cathal Kelly can see almost see the finishing line. Less than two weeks left on his monumental journey and then he will reach Rome: "I feel very emotional and proud of myself. It is the adventure of a lifetime."

Three and a half months ago, Cathal started walking. He embarked on the 2,200km long pilgrimage route called 'Via Francigena', through France, Switzerland and Italy down to Rome.  

Along the way, Cathal is raising awareness for two charities, the Crumlin Children's Hospital and the Mayo Parkinson Association, and collecting donations for these organisations. More info on how to donate: here.

Cathal has described his journey as a 'humbling experience'.

"I'm looking at my boots now, I hope they will make it" says Cathal, speaking to The Mayo News during his rest day in Siena today: "I did contemplate buying new boots, but unfortunately, they didn't have my size here in the shop."

But fortunately there is Irish people almost in every corner of the world, and even though rumour has it, that 'Guinness doesn't travel well', Cathal was able to source an excellent pint of the 'black stuff' in the middle of Italy:

"I'm in Siena at the moment. A beautiful old city. And as it turns out, I found a fantastic pint of Guinness. It was served by a Dublin man but with connections to Mayo. It is the beauty of the walk. Everything is broken down to simple things. You're not caught up in the normal hustle of everyday life and you appreciate the small things so much, after a long day of walking."

And even if Cathal didn't get new boots, he was able to treat himself with a new pair of socks for the final stretch of about 200km to Rome. It's the little things.

People have said about Cathal, that he was on 'The longest pub crawl in Europe' with him posting photos on social media. But walking all day, across half of Europe, everyone would agree that a pint in the evening is reward well deserved.

But obviously the most important thing are the donations. They have been coming in aplenty. So far Cathal has raised more than a thumping €30,000.  

Cathal says he is 'grateful' for all the support that he has received during his journey. And he has avoided injuries or any mishaps: "I get constant messages and comments from home, so many people wishing me well. It has been overwhelming. It's been the driving force. Without that constant support coming in, I'm not sure I would have made it really."

But he also says: "The longevity of it has really hit home. I can't wait to come home. My brother and his partner have had a child and I'm really looking forward to meet my niece. I feel very privileged and grateful."

And presumably no pint in Italy will taste as nice as the one that Cathal will have at home in Swinford when he returns in two week's time.

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