Natalie McNally’s brothers walk from Craigavon ​​to Croke Park in her memory – Armagh I

Natalie McNally’s brothers have set themselves the challenge of walking from Craigavon ​​to Croke Park to raise money in memory of their sister and to contribute to the fundraising campaign for a Co Armagh GAA player battling brain tumours.

Following Armagh’s victory over Kerry in the All-Ireland semi-final at Croke Park last Saturday, Niall (31) and Declan McNally (35) decided to celebrate the important occasion in a way that would benefit others.

The Craigavon ​​brothers lost their sister Natalie 18 months ago when she was tragically murdered at her home in Lurgan. Since her death, the family have been busy fundraising.

In honour of Natalie, they are walking from Craigavon ​​to Dublin to raise money for Women’s Aid, a charity fighting domestic violence.

A JustGiving page has been set up, which has already raised almost £6,000 in a short time!

“I said before the game that if Armagh beat Kerry I would go to the final because I thought it would be a good idea to celebrate that occasion,” Niall said. Armagh I.

“My brother and I go to every game and we’ve been going all our lives. We always drove, but this time we’re leaving the car behind.

“It was my idea and I don’t think Declan is happy about it. He’s going ahead with it anyway, so kudos!”

The duo will start at Craigavon ​​Lakes next Wednesday morning, with the aim of arriving in Croke Park in time for the final.

Armagh will play Galway at Croke Park on July 28 for the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship title.

Niall added: “We’ve raised a lot of money since she (Natalie) passed away and that’s what keeps us going. It’s all gone to Women’s Aid.

“She was a fierce activist herself and would stand up for people. She would have been at all the fundraisers and we will remember her for that and carry it on in her memory.”

The money raised will be split 50/50, with the other half of the proceeds going to ‘Care For Caolan’, the initiative set up to help Crossmaglen Gaelic footballer Caolan Finnegan.

“A lot of the Armagh lads have shared it,” Niall said. “You think you’re in a bad place when your team doesn’t win the game, but when you put it into perspective and see what he’s going through, it’s unbelievable.

“You wouldn’t wish it on anyone. We just want to contribute to his treatment and help him get better.”

Niall and Declan are hoping for some form of sponsorship but don’t mind paying for their own accommodation, but would be eternally grateful for any help with accommodation.

“We’ve had amazing support so far. I couldn’t believe it. I posted at 5:30 and had to start night shift at 6:00 and had to drive to work so I didn’t see it for ages and my phone was going crazy.

“When I went ahead within an hour I had raised over £100. When I looked back it was over £3,000. I just couldn’t believe it.”

You can donate to Niall and Declan’s charity campaign by visiting their JustGiving link here.

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