MS runners target Ireland record with Mizen to Malin charity challenge
In Ireland breaking news, two men living with multiple sclerosis are preparing to run the length of the country in a major charity effort this summer. Matthew Knagg, Colin Goodman and Colin’s brother Andrew plan to cover about 570km from Mizen Head in Co Cork to Malin Head in Co Donegal over 11 days, while aiming for a Guinness World Record.
The team expects to run roughly 50km a day and hopes to raise more than €115,000 for MS Ireland, the MS Society UK and Northern Ireland, and MS Run the US. Their challenge brings together fundraising, endurance sport and awareness of life with MS in a story likely to feature across latest news Ireland coverage.
Story: Ireland breaking news on record bid
Mr Knagg, an American based in Ohio, and Belfast man Colin Goodman first connected online in 2020 through an MS support group created by Mr Knagg. Their friendship deepened after Goodman reached out in 2022 while planning his own cross-Ireland run.
That earlier attempt ended after four days because of injury, but the men are now trying again with Andrew Goodman joining the effort. They are targeting the fastest crossing of Ireland on foot by a team living with MS.
What happened?
Training under difficult conditions
Mr Knagg, who was diagnosed with MS in 2020, said he was once told he might need a wheelchair within five years. At that stage, even walking 500 metres was difficult. Since then, he has worked to rebuild his mobility and last year completed a 240km six-day charity run in the US.
He is now training six days a week, alongside gym work and incline walking. He said his symptoms can vary sharply, with periods where he is almost bedridden, but he continues to prepare for the challenge.
Why it matters
This Ireland news story is about more than sport. The run aims to highlight the reality of living with MS and the wider support network around each diagnosis. Andrew Goodman’s involvement also reflects the role family members play in carrying that burden.
- Route: Mizen Head to Malin Head
- Distance: about 570km
- Goal: 11 days
- Fundraising target: more than €115,000
For readers following an Ireland news blog, the challenge also stands out as a rare attempt to combine elite endurance with disability advocacy.
Conclusion
As Ireland breaking news stories go, this is one of the most inspiring on the road this summer. If successful, the team will not only set a record but also deliver vital support for MS charities and a powerful message about resilience. Read more in our Ireland news section and follow related updates in our Ireland sports news coverage.
