'Langers in a Banger' taking on epic 12,000km trek from Mayfield to Mongolia for Cork's Marymount

Three men have begun a fundraising journey from Cork to Central Asia, travelling in a 1.2l Renault Clio, calling the campaign ‘Langers in a Banger: from Mayfield to Mongolia’.

Tom O’Connor, Ruari Casey, and Sean Foley set off on the 12,000km journey on Saturday, with the aim of raising money and awareness for Cork’s Marymount Hospice.

Prior to setting off, friends, family, and supporters met the trio at Henchy’s bar in St Luke’s Cross on Friday to celebrate the start of their adventure.

Their route will take them across Europe, through Turkey and the Caucasus, over the Caspian Sea, and along the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan before finishing in Kazakhstan.

Throughout their travels, they will face mountain passes, remote roads, border crossings, ferry crossings, and inevitable mechanical challenges as they make their way across two continents in a car not normally associated with long-distance expeditions.

However, according to the trio, their aim extends far beyond reaching the finish line, as they hope to give back to a charity that has supported so many families throughout Cork and to encourage others to get behind their journey.

Trusty Renault Clio

They said their “trusty Renault Clio” may not be the obvious choice for a journey of this scale, but that’s exactly what makes the challenge worthwhile.

“With a small engine, limited comforts, and three determined Cork men squeezed inside, we’ll be relying on good humour, teamwork, and plenty of luck to reach the finish line."

Fundraising manager at Marymount Hospice, Enid Conway, said they are “incredibly grateful to Tom, Ruari, and Sean for choosing to support Marymount through this extraordinary challenge”.

“Taking on a journey of more than 12,000km in a small Renault Clio is no small feat, and their determination, generosity, and sense of adventure are inspiring,” said Ms Conway.

“Every euro they raise will help Marymount continue providing compassionate care and support to people and families across Cork when they need it most.

“We wish them every success and safe travels on the road ahead.”

Donations of any size will directly support Marymount’s specialist services, helping to ensure patients and their families continue to receive exceptional care at the facility on the Curraheen Rd.

With a target of raising €2,000, the dedicated fundraising page, at the time of print, has already reached 91% of the overall goal.

For more information, or to make a donation to the fundraiser, search ‘Mayfield to Mongolia in aid of Marymount Hospital & Hospice’ at https://www.gofundme.com/f/mayfield-to-mongolia.