This summer, Kerryman Brendán is taking on one of the most ambitious endurance challenges — running 32 marathons in 32 days, one in every single county. His challenge is fuelled by purpose, community, and compassion, with every step dedicated to raising awareness and funds for homelessness.
This journey didn’t start as a personal test. It started with a question:
“How can I use what I’ve built — strength, discipline, endurance — to help others?”
For Brendán O’Neill, the answer became clear: he could run — and run for something bigger.
You can support his mission by donating, spreading the word, or even joining him on a leg of the journey. Let’s show him the strength of the Kerry community — and follow his incredible journey across Ireland.
But this isn’t Brendán’s first time using running as a force for good.
Earlier this year, he completed a grueling 100km run in one day in support of the Irish Heart Foundation — a test of both body and mind.
“Every step hurt. Every kilometre tested me. There were moments I didn’t know if I’d make it, but quitting was never an option,” Brendán shared. “This wasn’t just about me — it was for those who fight real battles every single day.”
That challenge raised over €2,700 and brought people together for a cause that truly mattered.
Now, Brendán is scaling things up — committing to 32 counties in 32 days in support of another vital cause: ending homelessness with Focus Ireland.
A Challenge With a Cause
“On July 23rd, I’ll lace up my runners in Antrim and take the first steps of the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced — running 32 marathons in 32 days, one in every county in Ireland. That’s over 1,350km. No rest days. Just back-to-back marathons with one goal in mind — making a real difference.”
— Brendán O’Neill
Brendán’s mission is to raise over €32,000 for Focus Ireland, a national charity supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Today, more than 15,000 people across Ireland lack a secure place to call home — and that number continues to rise.
Focus Ireland not only provides emergency support but also long-term solutions, advocacy, and hope. Brendán’s aim is to help fund this vital work, one marathon at a time.
Community at the Core
This isn’t a solo journey. In every county, Brendán will be inviting local communities to join him for the final 5–10km of each marathon. Whether you’re a runner, walker, supporter, or just curious, you’re welcome to be part of this national effort.
He’ll begin his journey on July 23rd in Antrim and finish on August 23rd in his hometown of Listowel, Co. Kerry — a fitting place to complete this powerful mission.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to support Brendán’s journey:
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Join the run in your local area – follow his daily route updates
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Donate directly via my iDonate page
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Spread the word – share Brendán’s story on social media and in your community
Follow the Journey Online
Brendán will be documenting his daily runs, sharing videos, reflections, and progress on social media:
📲 Instagram: @brendanoneill__
📲 TikTok: @brendanoneill_
You can also track his progress, see route updates, and learn more about the cause via his official fundraising page on iDonate.
From Personal Challenge to National Impact
Brendán’s final marathon in Listowel on August 23rd will bring this incredible journey full circle — back to where his heart is, surrounded by the Kerry community that shaped him.
Discover Kerry is proud to support Brendán and his mission. Let’s come together to cheer him on, walk a few kilometres beside him, and help make a difference for those who need it most.
Brendán O’Neill -
''Let’s run for those who can’t.
Let’s do something big — together''.
