BY MARK McKELVEY
MORE THAN 400 walkers are expected to make their way up the mighty Mullaghcarn this Sunday, July 29, for the 10th annual Cairn Sunday event starting at 2.30pm from three separate starting locations.
This popular event where people walk to the summit of Mullaghcarn regularly attracts over 400 participants of all ages, but many more are always welcome to participate in this annual family event.
The heritage of walking to the top of Mullaghcarn mountain is the revival of an old tradition and was first suggested by two friends, the late Paddy McCrory and Benny Monaghan of Cullion. The idea blossomed and is organised annually by the four local community groups, the Glens Development group, Owenkillew Community Development Association, Rouskey Community Association and Mountfield Community Association.
Ann-Marie Mossey a member of the Owenkillew Community Development Association said, "The day is an opportunity to meet old friends and make new ones. Walkers are encouraged to take a stone to the top to help rebuild the cairn.
"The three start locations are at the head of the Glens on the B48, this is a tarmac surface to walk to the top, from Glenmacoffer, near Gortin and from Lenagh, both of these routes are across the fell and good walking boots are recommended."
There is entertainment and refreshments at the top to revive the walkers before stepping out on the return journey. A bus is provided to transport those who want to enjoy the entertainment but don't fancy the walk. The bus leaves Gortin bridge at 3pm and can also be met at start of tarmac route.
Three Routes to choose from; A) North of the exit from at Gortin Glen Forest Park. This is mainly a tarmac route with a steep climb towards the summit. B) Top of Glenmacoffer Road – travel out the B46 road towards Cookstown from Gortin and turn right (bus shelter) onto Magheraliss Road, Glenmacoffer, with the starting point where road bends to the right- clearly signposted. C) Lenagh Road – From Mountfield village travel along the Lenagh Road towards Gortin and starting point is on left after approximately 3 miles. This route is over rough heather and involves some steep climbs.
For further information contact: Owenkillew Community Development Association. Tel; 028 8164 8390 or alternatively e-mail ocdagortin1@btopenworld.com
