Health

Mountain man: Annalong's Harry Teggarty on his epic 100 mountain challenge and the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team

Gail Bell asks experts and people in the public eye what keeps them going. This week: Annalong’s Harry Teggarty (72), volunteer with Mourne Mountain Rescue Team, runner and author of Cassie’s Challenge. Last month he completed an epic 100 mountain challenge in the Mournes, with 13,000 metres of elevation and a distance of 170km, to raise funds for Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI

Mourne Rescue Team volunteer Harry Teggarty. Picture by Mal McCann
Mourne Rescue Team volunteer Harry Teggarty. Picture by Mal McCann Mourne Rescue Team volunteer Harry Teggarty. Picture by Mal McCann
1

Up and at it – what is your morning routine?

When my alarm goes off at 6am, I get up and have a quick wash and shave. The dogs are waiting to go on their first walk of the day along the Annalong coastal path to the Springwell. This also gives me a head start with 5,000 steps to get me going for the day ahead.

2

What might you eat in a typical working day for...Breakfast?

Usually, I'll have a quick breakfast – either orange or cranberry juice followed by Frosties and muesli.

Lunch?

At work, I have a packed lunch of sandwiches, fruit, buns, pavlova or tart and yoghurt.

Evening meal?

Dinner is usually potatoes, vegetables and meat – depending on what the 'chef' provides...

3

Is nutrition important to you – do you take health supplements?

Nutrition is very important as I usually burn between 2,500 and 3,000 calories daily – and, if running on the mountain, an extra 500 calories per hour. I don't take supplements, as we eat healthily.

4

Ever been on a diet – if so, how did it go?

I never really need to diet, as I usually stay at around 70 kilos, although my workmates reckon I should be heavier because I do have a sweet tooth.

5

Weekend treat?

The weekends at this time of year can be busy for the Mountain Rescue Team. Only this past weekend we had two call-outs and occasionally there are more than that. However, it's great to be able to help people. I only work Monday to Thursday so, on a Friday, we try to take ourselves and the dogs for a good walk to the Silent Valley, Mourne Park or Yellow River area. On Saturday mornings, my good friend Stewart and I run the mountains and Saturday evenings we either treat ourselves or have a nice steak at home.

6

How do you keep physically and mentally fit?

I feel it is very important to try to keep active and as fit as you can be. I am very lucky to have a shared interest with Stewart and we run at least three times a week. We either run the forest trails or the mountains, depending on our training schedule at the time. On the mountains or trails, you need to keep focused and watch for any obstacles on the way. My running keeps me mentally alert.

7

Best tip for everyday fitness?

The best tip I can give for everyday fitness is to just do something, whether that is running, biking, walking or swimming with like-minded people so everyone can encourage each other to keep going.

8

Were you a fan of schools sports/PE or do you have a memory from those days that you would rather forget?

I always liked PE. In high school we were allocated a 'house' and mine was 'Donard'. Unfortunately, I never contributed many points on sports day.

9

Teetotal or tipple?

I had to think about this one because it must be almost 50 years since I had a Tennent's lager when I was a fisherman, so although I'm not too fond of a tea, I would say teetotal.

10

Stairs or lift?

I think that anybody who knows me would know the answer to this question...

11

What book are you currently reading?

I am not a bookworm, unlike my wife who can read a book, watch TV and knit at the same time. However, I am currently reading JC Ryle's Expository Thoughts On The Gospels which I am finding uplifting and encouraging.

12

Best Netflix?

My TV viewing would be David Attenborough or documentaries or a good comedy.

13

Most surprising thing you've learned about yourself over the pandemic?

The pandemic didn't really have a big impact on my life, other than missing my daughters and my wee granddaughter. I lead a very quiet family life, anyway. Thankfully, I was still able to pursue my running on the mountains or trails, keeping myself isolated at all times.

14

Any new skills or hobbies?

Well, as a volunteer with the Mountain Rescue Team, we are always training and learning new skills to deal with the various situations we come across. My other hobby is photography and learning how to capture scenery shots. I enjoy sharing these on Facebook, showing off the beauty and wildlife in our area. Also, at work, I make all sorts of blinds. We are always learning the different techniques regarding new blinds on the market.

15

How do you relax?

I asked my wife this question and the answer was: 'I don't know; I've never witnessed you relaxing - and you don't let me relax either.'

16

What are your goals for 2023?

It was practising for my 100-mountain challenge in June. But now, who knows?

17

What time do you get to bed and do you think you get enough sleep?

I try to get to bed before midnight, if possible. Apparently, I jump, snore and kick all night. However, I do get a good night's sleep – not so sure about my wife, though, if all she says is true.

18

Biggest gripe or regret?

I found this the easiest question; I live in a beautiful place where we see God's handiwork all around us. I enjoy my family and mountain-time and I have to say I have no regrets or gripes.

19

Have your priorities in life or perspectives changed?

My own priorities in life were to be happy and content with what I had and I must say this hasn't changed. I am very happy and thankful for all the blessings I have been granted in my life.

20

Has coronavirus – or any health epiphany or life event – changed your attitude towards your own mortality?

Coronavirus and leukaemia have probably made me think about my own mortality, but as one who has put their trust in the Lord Jesus, I believe God is in complete control of my life and I am very grateful for all that I have.

:: Cassie's Challenge is available to purchase from the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team shop and other outlets