Challenge 21

This annual event was established in 2022 to support the incredible work of the Down Syndrome Centre Cork. A small charity which provides vital services to over 180 kids with DS and their families in the greater Cork region.

Every year since, we have delivered this hugely successful event with up to 300 participants. We are very proud of the reputation that we have built for delivering a professional, safe, inclusive and fun event. We hope that you can get join us in 2025!

Get out, get fit, and help us to support kids with DS!

🏆 Up for a Challenge?

🗓️ This Sunday June 15th 2025 the Down Syndrome Centre Cork are organising the Challenge 21 fundraiser.

🏃‍♀🏃Walk, jog or run the 21km from Haulbowline to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh and help us to raise vital funds to support children with DS in Cork County.

🎁 Huge event raffle. Top prize is a trip for a family of 4 to Centre Parcs!

🥳 The finish line party will be fun for all the family with food, music, and games!

🏨 Register before March 30th 2024 to enter a draw for a weekend away for two in a four star hotel!

Ticket types

Everyone that enters Challenge 21 will get: a timed event, a great atmosphere at the start and finish lines, 5 x water & snack stations along the route, stewarding & sinage, a medal, commemorative gift, goodie bag, high quality photographs and access to the finish line party!

All this along with the unbridled joy and helping a small charity that has a huge impact on the lives of over 180 families in the greater Cork region!

This year we have 2 x ticket types:

-> Sponsored (€21): We are asking all those that select this ticket to aim to raise €21 from 21 people before walking the 21 km. Of course, we would be delighted with any funds raised, but it is always good to have a goal in mind 🙂.

If you manage to collect at least 4 x €21 sponsors, you and all of your sponsors will be entered into a raffle draw with some fantastic prizes. The top prize is a trip for a family of 4 to Centre Parcs!!!

Register before March 30th to enter a separate draw for two nights and an evening meal for two people in a four star hotel.

-> Un-sponsored (€40 early/€50 late): The high quality of our event means that we are attracting more amateur runners every year. We are delighted to have you along, however, the €21 registration fee does not cover our costs. So this year we are offering an un-sponsored ticket. Register before March 30th for €40 or for €50 there after. If you register at the early bird rate, you will also be entered into the draw for two nights and an evening meal for two people in a four star hotel.

Why 21?

Down syndrome, is a genetic condition caused by an extra chromosome. Most babies inherit 23 chromosomes from each parent, for a total of 46 chromosomes. Babies with Down syndrome however, end up with three chromosomes at position 21.

The provision of early intervention services is critical to ensure that kids with this extra chromosome can reach their full potential. Providing these services at a (heavily) subsidised rate is what our little charity is all about.