Arthritis Ireland has joined up with comedian Karl Spain to invite people from Galway to 'pick a peak' to support children in Ireland with Juvenile Arthritis.

On Saturday 12 July, more than 50 teams across Ireland will simultaneously walk up over 50 peaks across the nation, with Binn Bhan, Bunnacunneen, Letterbreckaun, Corcog, Diamond Hill and Tully Mountain in Galway among them.

Arthritis Ireland is calling on people of all fitness levels and all ages, enthusiastic families, experienced hillwalkers and intrepid explorers to participate in this unique challenge while raising funds for the up to one in 1,000 children in Ireland with Juvenile Arthritis.

Speaking at the launch of the challenge, Spain said: "I'm happy to be a part of Pick a Peak again this year and will be picking the easiest peak to climb to enjoy a picnic on with friends and family."

Having climbed a hill in Merrion Square at the launch, he was feeling confident about the upcoming challenge on 12 July. "I made it up this peak with the kids today, so the real one shouldn't be a problem," he said.

Pick a Peak is the only hill challenge that has been designed to adhere with the Mountaineering Council of Ireland's (MCI) Good Practice Guide and Environmental Policy in order to uphold an awareness of walking safety and environmental responsibility in the uplands.

Participants can pick-a-peak to suit their fitness levels by referring to the MCI's list of peaks, which cater for all levels of experience. The easiest peak, or hill on offer is Howth Hill and the most challenging peak, or the highest mountain in Ireland, Carrauntoohil.

For those who don't want to pick a peak alone, Arthritis Ireland is holding a group walk, which will take place on Sugarloaf Mountain, Co. Wicklow on Saturday 12 July.

Pick-a-Peak is part of Arthritis Ireland's 'Get your joints in motion' campaign, which covers activity-based events and communicates the message that getting active and staying active is the best way to keep your joints healthy, regardless of your age.

People interested in registering for Pick-a-Peak or the Arthritis Ireland group walk can contact Arthritis Ireland on 01-661 8188, go to www.arthritisireland.ie or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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