Pedal For the Point raises grand total of €69,604 for Donegal national school

The Pedal For the Point fundraiser for Crannóg Buí National School in Ardara has raised a grand total of €69,604.39.

Pedal For the Point took place in May and funds raised from the cycle will go towards the school’s new playing space. Almost 80 cyclists set off from picturesque Loughros Point to complete the 80km route which took in Narin/Portnoo, Lettermacaward, Doochary and Glenties along the way before arriving back in Ardara to cross the finish line.

The likes of former Donegal GAA stars Anthony Molloy, Paddy McGrath and Damian Diver all took part while last year’s Donegal International Rally modified section winner Declan ‘Milkman’ Gallagher was also one of the competitors.

School principal Marguerite Smith praised the “amazing community” who came together for the fundraiser.

“From the Principal and the entire Organising Committee, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who made Pedal for the Point - held this past May - such a memorable and outstanding success,” she said.

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“Thanks to the phenomenal support of our local community, past pupils, and former parents, this fundraiser surpassed all expectations. From early morning preparations to the last bite of cake shared, the spirit of generosity and togetherness was palpable.

“The weather played its part in making it a great day, but it was the atmosphere, the laughter, the conversations, and the genuine sense of unity that made it truly special. We are immensely grateful to the van drivers, to the marshals, to those in charge of promotion and social media and a special shoutout must go to Cess and Tomas, who were never far away with their toolkits, ensuring everything ran smoothly.

“To those who donated food, offered encouragement along the route, or simply turned up to cheer on the cyclists-thank you. Your support lifted every pedal stroke. 

“Behind the scenes, our hard-working committee in the Parish Centre kept energy levels high with an incredible spread of food for both cyclists and families. Their tireless work did not go unnoticed and is deeply appreciated.

“To all those who supported the event in countless ways-donating money, sponsoring the t- shirts, organising events, selling tickets, running bake sales and 25 card drives, chopping and selling firewood, and rallying sponsorship from family and friends-you helped push this effort far beyond what we imagined.

“This extraordinary amount means we can now move forward this summer with the Field Development Project. Plans are already underway for a new car park, an astro pitch, and an additional play area, all with beautiful views overlooking Loughros Point. This project will benefit our school for years to come.

“As Principal, I am sincerely overwhelmed by the incredible generosity-whether of time, money, or support-shown by each and every one of you. It is a testament to the strong, vibrant, and caring community that surrounds our school.”