Birr father and son take the plunge in aid of Special Olympics

Rebekah O'Reilly

Birr man Paul Hoare and his son Eoin Hoare are set to take the plunge in the Winter Dip for the Special Olympics on St Stephen's Day.

This is Paul's tenth year to participate in the event, with 18-year-old Eoin is completing the dip alongside his dad for the 3rd year in a row.

“I have another son Billy who has Down Syndrome. He's not competing but I would know a lot of the people that are competing."

When asked how he prepares for the plunge, the father and son duo have a care-free training style - “never prepare, just jump!”

Paul and Eoin have raise €415 of their €750 target so far, all thanks to the support of their friends and family.

“It's a no pressure kind of thing – every euro counts," he said.

The money raised from the Winter Dip will go towards Special Olympics events, preparation, and any other costs that may arise.

"We have people competing in the Winter Olympics early next year both locally and nationally - so it all go towards making sure they have the funding," Paul said.

To donate, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/winter-dip-for-special-olympics-ireland-2024