Former Celt, Simon Donnelly has been a friend of Celtic FC Foundation for a number of years, having attended our Sleep Out events, participated in our annual Golf Days and played in a number of Foundation charity matches.

But now, he’s set to show his support once again, as he gets set to take on an incredible Sahara Desert Trek, as part of the Foundation’s brand new ‘Celts in the Sahara’ event.

Simon follows in the footsteps of former team-mate and Club Ambassador, Tom Boyd, who completed our Arctic Trek back in January of this year.

Following the wonderful success of that event, Celtic FC Foundation now look forward to our next overseas challenge in the Sahara, with Simon and an adventurous group of fellow Celts.

Speaking of the challenge ahead, Simon said: “I’ve been really lucky to have taken part in a few things with the Foundation before and, when this opportunity came up, it was one that I was really keen to take, as the charity’s work in helping others is so important.

“It’s also an incredible opportunity to see a part of the world that I’ve never been to before and take in a new experience, while raising invaluable funds for such a good cause.

“Boydy talks a lot about the Arctic Trek and I know what an amazing time he had, so I’m sure this will be just as brilliant. Though he got the extreme cold and I’m getting the extreme heat, so I’m not sure who got the better deal there.

“For anyone considering joining, I’d say just go for and put yourself out of your comfort zone because this will be a real once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Celts in the Sahara will see the group trek approximately 32 kilometers over four days through the world’s most famous desert. On one of the days, participants will summit the Chigaga Dunes – the highest sand dunes in the Sahara – in time to witness the stunning sunrise. There will also be an opportunity for everyone to explore the beautiful city of Marrakech.

A limited number of places are now available and the cost of the trip is £1,600 per person, which includes a non-refundable deposit of £300 required to confirm your place. There is also a minimum fundraising requirement of £1,800 as a charitable contribution to Celtic FC Foundation, in support of our work challenging poverty and promoting inclusion.

The package includes:

Return flights from central Scotland, departing on Thursday, February 15 and returning on Wednesday, February 21.
Transfers within Morocco.
Hotel accommodation on days 1, 2 and 6.
Tents and other camping equipment (participants must bring their own sleeping bag and sleeping mat) for days 3, 4 and 5.
All meals from dinner on day 1 through to breakfast on day 7.
Local English speaking guides, Global Adventure Challenges leader from the UK and a UK Doctor.
A celebration after completion of the trek.

To register your interest and receive a registration pack, please email us at cfcfoundation@celticfc.co.uk or call 0141 551 4321.

Thank you for your wonderful support.

Simon Donnelly set for the Sahara with Celtic FC Foundation