In this episode, I sit down with Jenny Sparling and Dom Divilly from Limerick Climbing Club to discover the thriving hill-walking community that's been bringing outdoor enthusiasts together across Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary. With over 200 members, this club (formerly known as the Limerick Climbing and Crochet Club) offers varied experiences for walkers of all abilities.
Jenny shares her personal journey since joining in 2018, including how she dove headfirst into a week-long club trip to Spain despite barely knowing anyone, and how this decision transformed both her fitness and social life. As the club's social secretary, she offers unique insights into the community aspect that makes this group special.
Our guests detail the three main types of walks offered by the club: the regular Sunday walks that vary in difficulty levels, the popular Wednesday evening summer walks that break up the work week, and the highly anticipated weekends away that have taken members to destinations like the Alps and Scotland.
We discuss how the club navigated the challenges of COVID-19, strategies for newcomers concerned about fitness levels, and practical advice for listeners interested in joining their first walk. This conversation highlights not just the physical benefits of hill-walking, but the lasting friendships and sense of community that have become the hallmark of the Limerick Climbing Club.
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