Peak fitness needed for Kerry mountain challenge

One of Ireland’s top mountain guides has launched what’s being billed as one of the toughest and most exhilarating outdoor challenges ever staged in an Irish mountain range.

KerryClimbing.ie founder, Piaras Kelly, announced details yesterday of the inaugural Killarney’s Ultimate High Peaks Challenge which will see participants trek 25km of stunning, wild, rugged mountain terrain over 14 of Ireland’s highest summits — all in one day.

The July 11 event will see participants traversing the Gap of Dunloe, over the dramatic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, and scaling Ireland’s highest mountain, with a total height gain of more than 2,450 meters.