Together Through the Toughest Challenges: Féileacáin Fathers to Take on HELL & BACK in Honour of Bereaved Families Across Ireland
Together Through the Toughest Challenges: Féileacáin Fathers to Take on HELL & BACK in Honour of Bereaved Families Across Ireland
A group of bereaved fathers from across Ireland are preparing to take on HELL & BACK Winter Warrior 2026, Ireland’s toughest winter challange, in support of Féileacáin, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support charity.
Féileacáin, which means butterfly in Irish, was formed in 2009 by a group of parents who had experienced the devastating loss of a baby around the time of birth. The organisation became a registered charity in 2010 and has since grown into Ireland’s national charity supporting families affected by perinatal loss.
Among those taking part in this year’s Winter Warrior event is Tony Owens, who lost his unborn son Arthur in October 2013. Tony has been part of Féileacáin Fathers for several years, a group that provides connection and solidarity for men who have experienced the loss of a baby. Men’s grief in these situations can often be overlooked and this group gives dads a space to speak openly, find support and honour their children together.
Féileacáin Fathers now includes around 140 dads from across Ireland and sadly, continues to grow. Originally formed as a football team to help bereaved dads connect, the group now runs an annual calendar of meet-ups and events from football matches and Footgolf to family days, mountain challenges and HELL & BACK itself.
“Our dads come together at different events around the country but none so much as HELL & BACK, where we all do it as a team and show that we have each other’s backs,” says Tony. “Whether a dad is new to our group or has been here a while, this event reminds us that we’re all in it together. It’s a real symbol of support and strength.”
He adds, “I can never truly put into words what being part of this team means. Of course, I wish none of us had reason to be here but when the worst happens there’s huge comfort in being around men who understand. It’s a bond like no other.”
The Féileacáin Father’s participation highlights the powerful sense of community and purpose that comes from taking on HELL & BACK as a group, not only raising funds and awareness for their chosen charity but also giving members a chance to connect and push their limits together.
HELL & BACK Winter Warrior 2026 takes place on the 28th of February at Killruddery Estate in Bray. Participants can choose between the 7km Social Lap, 14km (two laps) or the full 21km half marathon challenge. The course features signature obstacles, some of which are featured on Ireland’s Fittest Family, including Heartbreak Ridge, Valley of Pain and Satan’s Pit. Many groups and charities will take on the ultimate challenge in support of incredible causes such as Féileacáin.
Féileacáin receives no central government funding, relying entirely on donations and community support to continue its vital work. Donations to Féileacáin can be made directly through the charity’s website at www.feileacain.ie
To register your charity team or individual place for HELL & BACK Winter Warrior 2026, visit www.hellandback.ie/winter
Issued by AE Consulting on behalf of Alive Outside/HELL & BACK
Please contact Rosie for more images, info, interview requests etc.
