Through the blustery winds and cold harsh rain last Thursday, 22 students from CBS Secondary School, Mitchelstown braved the elements as they trekked up the Galtee mountains.

Before they set off for the mountain at 11.30 that morning, Mass was said by Fr Michael Fitzgerald in the school and  principal John Desmond wished them all the best of luck on their travels.

Speaking to The Avondhu before they set off on their trip, students Kenneth Baker, James Meaney, Conor Peppard and Declan Cahill, said that this was going to be the highlight of Transition Year for them and that they were really looking forward to it.

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

James said that it was a bit intense at the start, but Conor added that once Mr Rea and the teachers realised that they could be trusted to take it seriously, it was quite straight forward. "It will be a tough challenge, but we are all very much looking forward to it," Conor said.

The group reached the foothills of the Galtees by noon and after a gruelling 9km walk up the mountain, they were back at the base of the Galtees before 7pm.

Teacher John Rea said that the boys did very well in adverse weather conditions and despite the challenging trek, they were in good spirits. "It was a good long walk under difficult conditions and they lit their stoves and had hot food and drinks on the mountain. As the conditions deteriorated, the group moved back down to go home to a welcome warm shower and cosy bed.

"The boys were a credit to the school and they were cheerful throughout. I was very proud of them all and would happily take them up again."

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