Mayo man is greeted by community after completion of mammoth physical challenge

West Mayo man Basil McLeod was welcomed home to his local town in Louisburgh where a large crowd came out to congratulate the 24-year-old on his mammoth challenge. The young man who ran four marathons in four different countries in a time frame of just five days was delighted to reach Louisburgh on Saturday last. Raising funds for his chosen charity, Basil opted for Mental Health Ireland and the Louisburgh GAA captain has raised over €13,000.

Starting off in Edinburgh, Scotland, McLeod ran the first stage on June 10 where he was accompanied by his friend, Joe Dawson. The second stage was the toughest according to the keen runner as he conquered Cardiff, Wales. Running the 42km alone was certainly a challenge that McLeod enjoyed as a day's rest was to follow. After rest and recovery in London, Basil took off with great support egging him on including his mother, his godparents and numerous friends.

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After arriving in Knock Airport, Basil made his way to Westport where he started the run homebound with the company of Brian McGinn and Alan Kennedy by his side before a flock of Basil’s community and fellow GAA members came out and joined in on the last leg of his amazing journey. The Louisburgh GAA captain thanked everyone who came out in support while also thanking everyone who donated to his chosen charity.

Next month, Louisburgh’s Men Shed will hold a fundraiser in McNamara’s bar which will see donations split between the Men's shed and Basil’s charity, Mental Health Ireland. People can still donate by clicking here