Dillon Quirke Foundation Launches Thomond Park Abseil Challenge on Anniversary of Dillon’s Passing

Dillon Quirke Thomond Park – Pictured above are Cathy McDermott, Foundation screening manager, Jess Wright, fundraising manager, Dan Quirke, foundation founder, Cleo Pitcher Farrell, Irish International kayaker, Karen O’Sullivan, fundraising support and Niall Quinn, Chairman of the Foundation.

The Dillon Quirke Thomond Park Abseil Challenge will raise vital funds to support the Foundation’s life-saving heart screening programme

The Dillon Quirke Foundation is proud to officially launch its Dillon Quike Thomond Park Abseil Challenge, taking place on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026, the anniversary of Dillon Quirke’s passing.

The Dillon Quike Thomond Park Abseil Challenge is a  unique fundraising event will see individuals, families, clubs, community groups and corporate teams take on the challenge of abseiling from the iconic Thomond Park Stadium, all while raising vital funds to support the Foundation’s life-saving heart screening programme.

Since its establishment, the Dillon Quirke Foundation has screened more than 21,000 young people across Ireland, helping to identify potentially serious cardiac conditions that may otherwise have gone undetected. Every euro raised through the Thomond Park Abseil Challenge will help the Foundation continue its mission of protecting young athletes and ensuring more families have access to preventative heart screening.

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The campaign was officially launched today at Thomond Park by Foundation founder Dan Quirke, alongside Foundation ambassador and Irish Kayak Cross athlete Cleo Pitcher Farrell and board chair Niall Quinn.

Cleo shared her own powerful story of screening and early detection. Despite having no symptoms, Cleo underwent a cardiac screening which identified an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), a hole in the heart that can often go unnoticed. Following the diagnosis, Cleo successfully underwent a corrective procedure and is now preparing to compete at the upcoming World Championships.

Speaking at the launch, Cleo highlighted the importance of screening and the difference early detection can make.

“I had no symptoms and felt healthy. If I hadn’t been screened, I would never have known there was an issue. Having the opportunity to get checked gave me answers and allowed me to get treatment before it became a bigger problem. It’s why I’m so passionate about supporting the Foundation’s work and encouraging people to get involved in events like this.”

Founder Dan Quirke said the event represents an opportunity for people across Ireland to honour Dillon’s memory while helping to protect the next generation of young athletes.

“Every screening we deliver is about giving young people the opportunity to understand their heart health and potentially prevent future tragedy. Hosting this event on Dillon’s anniversary is incredibly meaningful for our family. We hope people from every corner of Ireland will come together, take on the challenge, and help us continue this important work.”

The Chairperson of the Dillon Quirke Foundation Board Niall Quinn also called on the public, sports clubs and businesses to support the initiative.

“The impact of the Foundation’s screening programme continues to grow year after year, but we can only do that because of the incredible support we receive from communities, volunteers and fundraisers. We are asking people to sign up, form a team, challenge their colleagues, friends or clubmates, and help us raise the funds needed to continue saving lives.”

Participants can register as individuals or as part of a team and are encouraged to raise sponsorship in advance of the event. Whether you’re conquering a fear of heights, taking on a challenge with friends, or supporting the Foundation in memory of Dillon, every participant will play a role in helping fund future screenings.

The Foundation is encouraging sports clubs, schools, workplaces and community organisations to get involved and make the Thomond Park Abseil Challenge a memorable day of fundraising, remembrance and action.

Registration is now open.

Sign up today and help protect young athletes, one heart at a time.

Register here