Scoil Iosagáin trains with Shane to raise funds for Autism classes

February 26, 2026 Featured Stories, Home Slider, Mallow Star

Scoil Iosagain is taking part in a Train With Shane in initiative in recent days. The Shane in question is Shane Blake, a local man who is taking part in the gruelling Hell and Back sporting challenge this weekend to raise funds for the Autism classes in Scoil Iosagain. Inspired by Shane’s efforts, teachers and pupils in the school are doing fun training sessions during their school day, which will have great health benefits for everyone. Pictured are some of the pupils and teachers taking part in Train With Shane.

Shane’s ‘Hell and Back’ fundraiser for Scoil Íosagáin
A local father, Shane Blake, is set to take on one of Ireland’s toughest physical challenges this weekend to raise vital funds for Autism classes in Scoil Íosagáin, Mallow. This Saturday, Shane will participate in ‘Hell and Back’, Ireland’s most demanding obstacle course, known for its mud-filled trenches, icy water crossings and gruelling climbs. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for this determined dad, every obstacle represents an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the life of his son, and other children in the school’s Autism classes.
As for Shane himself, he says that “This challenge is about pushing myself and raising awareness. Scoil Íosagáin has supported my son in ways that really matter to me, and I want to give something back.”
What makes this challenge even more special is the involvement of the pupils themselves. In recent weeks, all infant pupils have been taking part in the ‘Train With Shane’ programme – a fun and engaging initiative designed by teachers for the school’s young pupils. This programme promotes movement, fitness and wellbeing, while also giving children a chance to feel connected to the fundraising effort.
The children have embraced the training with energy and excitement, cheering on their local hero as he prepares to face the mud, sweat and tears of ‘Hell and Back’.
Their participation has created a real sense of community spirit throughout the school.
Funds raised from this challenge will be used to purchase sensory equipment for the Autism classes.
By taking part in one of Ireland’s toughest physical challenges, this local dad is helping to ensure that every child in Scoil Íosagáin has access to the tools and support they need to thrive.
The fundraiser has already collected over €2,500 for the school’s Autism classes, and every cent counts towards the cause, so anyone who would like to make a donation, please go to the iDonate page and look for ‘Shane’s Hell and Back for Scoil Íosagáin Infant School’. The fundraiser will be open until 5th March, so please give anything you can afford!