GAA super fan Darragh Crawford has been visiting all of Donegal’s GAA clubs and has now heroically finished his epic challenge.
Darragh (24), who has a rare chromosomal disorder, launched his 40-club quest two years ago by visiting Downings GAA in July 2024.
He completed his club crusade on Tuesday past at his hometown club Naomh Padraig Leifear where 300 people waved him home.
His loving mum Diane told the Donegal News: “He was super excited. There was some anxiety too, but it all turned out brilliantly.
“It’s been a long journey. He wanted to visit as many of Donegal’s 40 clubs as possible.
“He emailed them all and got responses from half of them within 24 hours. It shows the fantastic community spirit in Donegal.”
Darragh with Donegal player Patrick McBrearty.
Mum Diane said: “The first club was Downings with [its key spokesperson] Tanya Roberts Browne.
“That was perfect because Tanya is now the national chairperson for inclusion in the GAA.
“Every emotion was going through my head. To see the crowd in Lifford was fantastic. We saw over 300 people as we went through the club gates.
“That exceeded all expectations. Donegal Community Inclusion Training Services in Ballybofey have been absolutely amazing.
“For anyone young adult with disabilities, they help so much. Darragh has a rare chromosomal disorder. People wouldn’t even have heard of it.
“We are so proud of him. There are no words for it. Everybody went over and beyond to make him feel very welcome.”
Darragh Crawford poster. Credit: Naomh Padraig Leifear.
A spokesperson for the Naomh Padraig club in Lifford said: “Darragh completed his incredible goal of visiting all the clubs clubs in Donegal.
“That’s 40 clubs, one incredible journey, countless memories.”
Darragh’s hugely successful club challenge included a visit to Donegal legend Michael Murphy’s club Glenswilly.
A spokesperson at Páirc Naomh Columba said: “We were delighted to welcome Donegal super fan Darragh as he continued his journey on visiting every club in Donegal.
“Darragh was given a tour around the club grounds and presented with a club jersey signed by Michael Murphy.”
Darragh Crawford visited Glenswilly GAA Club.
His home community in Lifford has praised his heroic efforts that were assisted by his carer Ronan Duffy and local body Donegal Community Inclusion Training Services in Ballybofey.
Lifford Credit Union said: “Darragh has been on an incredible journey, setting himself the goal of visiting every GAA club in Donegal.
“What began as a personal challenge has grown into something much bigger, a story of inclusion, friendship, community spirit and belonging that has touched people right across the county.
“Darragh’s journey came full circle as he completed his final visit at his hometown club Naomh Padraig Leifear.
“We’re proud to recognise achievements that bring people together and showcase the very best of Donegal.
“It is a fantastic milestone. Congratulations Darragh on an inspiring achievement and on completing this remarkable journey.”