Tom’s horse and cart trek to fund Special Olympics
His 190-km journey began last Saturday and he is hoping to raise thousands of euro for the Special Olympics.
Tom, a 72-year-old grandfather from Kilfinane, has borrowed a horse and carriage as his own pony has come down with a virus.
Tom and his bay horse, Bilko, were seen off from outside Chawke’s pub in Adare.
And he got off to a very good start as Supt Eddie McEoin presented him with the first cheque for his fund raiser.
On his journey, Tom is being hosted by members of various hunts, who are also providing stabling for Bilko.
Local radio stations will also map his progress for listeners.
Tom and Bilko will have a day’s rest next Friday before completing their journey outside the Red Cow Inn, Dublin.
Tom said: “I would like to raise about €30,000. I did this same journey before for Telethon.
“We will have a team of collectors out getting in the money. The journey should be no problem for Bilko, who has been well prepared by his owner, Paddy Hanly, from Doon.”
Anybody wishing to pledge donations to Tom Ryan’s fundraiser can do so on a hotline 1850 60 2005.
