‘It’s hard to narrow it down to one favourite memory.’

During a visit from America, Len made the most of him time in Co. Wicklow and took on the Wicklow Passport! From Arklow to Enniskerry, Len explored the Garden County and earned his status as a Wicklow Ambassador by collecting 18 Wicklow Passport stamps! In a recent conversation, we learned more about his journey, insights, and suggestions for future Ambassadors!

How did you first hear about the Wicklow Passport?

I first learned about the Wicklow Passport while working with Visit Wicklow on a promotional project regarding Notre Dame in the Aer Lingus Classic in Dublin.

What motivated you to take on the challenge?

I received my first passport stamp at Beyond the Trees Avondale and was encouraged to get out and experience Wicklow!

Can you share the most unforgettable memory from your Wicklow
Passport experience?

It’s hard to narrow it down to one favourite memory.

I think the thing that resonates with me the most is spending time with my friend and experiencing the journey together – from driving down the lanes to multiple cups of coffee.

What advice would you give to others who are interested in participating in a similar adventure?

First off, it is not a race or a ticking of the box. The Wicklow Passport is designed to get one to experience Wicklow – not just the highly visited areas.

I encourage you to visit Glendalough, but also get to remote places and stop to get your passport stamped.

Have a cup of coffee or tea and interact with the locals. The experience will pay dividends and give you a comprehensive understanding of the ‘Garden of Ireland’.

If you had the chance to do your Wicklow Passport adventure all over again, what would you change?

Better planning of my route. In the States, you can easily exit from a highway and be at your destination.

In Ireland, it can be trickier and my ‘free form’ approach to adventure was not shared by my friend who I depended on for transport!

What was your overall impression of the Wicklow Passport challenge?

I am impressed with the Wicklow Passport and its contribution to tourism.

I am trying to replicate the concept in my coverage of Notre Dame athletics!