Karl’s on top of the world after four-peaks challenge

Operation Transformation star Karl Henry has just completed the challenge of a lifetime, leading 18 staff members from Allianz up four mountains in three days, hiking a total of 3,559 metres.
The challenge was all in aid of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and the team are just shy of hitting their €50,000 target – and they need your help to get over the line.
The team begin their Four Peaks Challenge on Friday morning in Co Kerry, hiking 1,038 metres to the top of Ireland’s highest peak Carrauntoohil. On Saturday the team, led by Karl, tackled the 814 metre tall Mweelrea in Co. Mayo.
Sunday saw the group facing the toughest challenge of the weekend with a hike up twin ascents; the 850 metre trek up Slieve Donard in Co. Down before a 925 metre walk up Lug na Quilla in Co. Wicklow.
The group of 18 Allianz workers were all novice hillwalkers before taking on the challenge, but hard work and dedication meant they were able to brave the elements and complete the challenge.
He told The Gazette this week: “‘The Four Peaks Challenge was a truly fantastic experience over this beautiful sunny weekend.
“The sun shone down on us as we all climbed and discovered the four highest peaks in Ireland in only three days.
“The climbs were that extra bit tougher with the heat, but through hard work, dedication, team work and of course lots of water we made it!
“It was a really great way to explore some stunning parts of our country and the team all really bonded.
“There were a few sore legs returning back to Dublin on Sunday evening but it was a weekend to remember. I’m delighted to say that we are well on our way to hitting our €50,000 target.
“You can still donate to help us raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and reach our target.”
The aim of the challenge was to raise €50,000 for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, a charity of huge importance to Karl personally.
He added: “It was just a matter of waiting for the right charity to come along. When the Alzheimer Society was mentioned, I jumped at the chance..
“My own grandmother battled with the condition so it was something I had a connection to, so I was delighted to help.”
The team have raised over €48,000 so far, sending them well on their way to going above and beyond their target and providing much needed funds for sufferers of Alzheimer’s.