Welcome!
The ‘Monte Challenge’ is Mountcharles’ first ever adventure race and was held for the first time on 7 September 2024! The second Monte Challenge took place 30 August 2025 and year 3 will be on Saturday 29th August 2026. We are a voluntary committee on a mission to organise a national sports event for all ages and a local fundraiser in the heart of the Mountcharles community, South West Donegal.
Who’s behind the Monte Challenge?
The committee are based in the Mountcharles area and are all community, outdoors and good cause enthusiasts!
Chair; Rosy Temple
Race Directors; Martin O’Boyle and Peter Mogan
Secretary; Daire Diver
Treasurers; James McGroary and Enda Lynch
PRO’s; Patrick and Conor McBrearty
Health & Safety Officer; Cathal Sweeney
Committee Members; Siobhan McNulty, Paul Gillespie, Andrew Gallagher,
Fundraising, Costs and Community
In 2024 & 2025, we raised funds for three great local organisations; St. Naul’s GAA, St. Peter’s National School and The Bluestack Foundation. In 2024, we raised 15,000 euro and in 2025 raised 19,500 euro, split equally between each organisation. Thank you all! In 2026, we will continue to fundraise for local organisations.
There are costs to put on the Monte Challenge e.g. timing system, route infrastructure, signage etc. To cover the main costs of running the Monte Challenge, we aim to secure local business sponsorship and grant support. In 2024 and 2025, we were extremely grateful for the support from; our title sponsor Magee 1866, supporting sponsors Source Civil, Connect.it, McMonagle Stone and over 40 local business sponsors, Donegal County Council grants, Local councillor grants. We aim to then put the majority of your race entrant’s fee towards local community organisations and some of your race entrant’s fee will also go towards the running of the race.
Each year, we receive incredible support from the local community with over 120 volunteer marshal’s on the day, alongside lots of help and expertise which is crucial to run the event. The support from you, our local community volunteers and generous sponsors makes the Monte Challenge happen, thank you! We are excited for 2026.