Emergency Services Charity Cycle

On Your Bike for Emergency Services

Cyclists of all levels of fitness and ability are wanted to participate in a major fund raising trek through West Cork.  Now in its seventh year, the West Cork Emergency Services Charity Cycle, which has raised €250,00.00 for various organisations, last year attracted 200 cyclists, and it is hoped a similar number will participate this year.  

“This event is open to people of varying levels of fitness – you don’t have to beStephen Roche to participate”, said Garry Minihane, one of the organisers.  “The emphasis is on fun, not competition”. A large number of cyclists, from America, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Australia, Dublin, Kerry, Limerick and Cork have signed up.  “It is a fun cycle, with the emphasis on having a fun day at a leisurely cycling pace, along with raising money for variuos organisations”, he said.   The cycle, 50 miles, will take in towns including Skibbereen, Dunmanway, Drimoleague, Clonakilty and Rosscarbery.   The first leg is Skibb to Dunmanway via Drimoleague. A 17 mile cycle, which he describes as “relatively flat and easy”, takes 90 minutes. In Dunmanway, the local fire service will provide refreshments, tea, fruit and sandwiches.  

The second leg – 16 miles, also about 90 minutes – takes the team to Clonakilty, where the members of the local fire service will provide refreshments.  The final leg runs from Clonakilty to Skibbereen, via Rosscarbery and Leap.   The 20 mile trek usually takes two hours.   The day will conclude with a parade through Skibbereen, and a bar-b-que in Skibbereen Fire Station.   A party will take place in Skibbereen on the night, with music and finger food provided.  This is usually a great night out and a great way to finish off the day.    This years cycle will take place on Saturday July 10th.  

For more information, visit www.westcorkemscycle.com or email or contact Garry Minihane, 086 8328394.

Photo courtesy Examiner “County” Supplement. Article by Áilín Quinlan.