2,000 cyclists expected for 25th Kerry fundraiser

UPWARDS of 2,000 cyclists, including some from the US, are expected to take part in one of Ireland’s major one-day charity events.

The 25th annual Ring of Kerry Cycle — an event that has so far raised €2.6 million for worthy causes — will be held on July 5.

Numerous voluntary organisations in Kerry have benefited from the cycle which last year raised €312,000 — up from €92,000 the year before.

Since the start of the year, the organisers have been receiving queries from cyclists all over Ireland, as well as the UK, Europe and the US.

All the money raised goes to nominated organisations, which this year are: Enable Ireland (Kerry service), Kerry branch of Down Syndrome Ireland, the Lourdes Pilgrimage Trust (IHCPT) and Rockmount Alzheimer’s Care Centre.

“The important thing for people to realise is that this is not a race,” said organising committee chair Denis Geaney.

“The emphasis is on taking part and, hopefully, completing the 112-mile circuit. There will be rest stops along the way and back-up vehicles for repairs, and refreshments will accompany cyclists.”

The cyclists will set out from Killarney, taking the popular tourist route through Killorglin, Caherciveen and Sneem and finishing in Killarney.

Mr Geaney is the founding chairman of the cycle and each of the committee members, including Cathal Walshe, Paddy O’ Donoghue, John Shepherd and Dan McCarthy, have all been involved for at least 21 years.