Organisers hope for record number of cyclists at fundraiser

The organisers of a major charity fundraiser are hoping its 21st anniversary spectacle will attract a record number of cyclists.

One of those who has already signed up for the Oct 6 event is Agriculture Minister & Simon Coveney.

The Carrigaline and District Lions Club started its annual charity fundraising cycle in 1981.

Just 18 cyclists took part in that year’s event which raised €2,500.

However, support for the cycle classic grew steadily over the years and last year approximately 150 people took part.

The last 20 events have raised more than €600,000 for local charities.

Most of money has been donated to cancer-related charities.

This year’s event takes place on Oct 6 and the route will be from Carrigaline to Kenmare.

It’s a very good challenge for the enthusiastic cyclist but there are also opportunities for those not so experienced to take part.

This year’s main sponsor is John O’Connor of Victoria Cross Cycles.

Carrigaline and District Lions Club was established in 1988.

And while the annual cycle is one of its bigger fundraisers, the club has raised more than €2m for worthy causes.

The club has built 16 sheltered housing units in Carrigaline. Its main project for 2012/2013 is to build a youth centre to serve the Carrigaline and district area.

* For further details and sponsorship cards contact Mark Ginn on 021-4373088 or James O’Sullivan on 087-2609526.