Fundraising cycle for two National Schools planned in south-west Donegal

A group of 85 amateur cyclists will take part in a fundraising cycle to raise funds for two National Schools in South West Donegal.

Scoil Náisiúnta na Carraige and Cashel NS, Glencolmcille, joined together in a unique fund-raising effort and the response from the local community of parents and friends has been outstanding, with 85 cyclists signed up to take part.

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The event is an 80k cycle taking place on Saturday, May 16. It will begin at approximately 8.30am from the Naomh Columba GAA grounds, wind its way to Bruckless and then return to Glen. This joint fundraising cycle involving both Scoil na Carraige and Scoil an Chaisil is being held to raise funds for both local schools. The vast majority of the cyclists have a connection to the school as most were either past pupils, past or current parents, or are related to someone who attended the schools.

The route takes the cyclists towards Malinmore and then on to Carrick. From there it’s onwards towards Killybegs, via Coláiste na Carraige.

From Killybegs, it's towards Bruckless Community Centre for a scheduled stop. The return leg will be via Benroe, back toward Killybegs, and onward to the Blue Haven Hotel. From there, it's back towards Carrick and on to Glencolmcille via Glenmalin and Malinmore.

The event concludes with food at Naomh Columba’s GAA ground. The day concludes with music in John Eoinin’s Bar.

The launch took place on Saturday evening last in Scoil Náisiúnta na Carraige, where Principal Anna Marie Nic Giolla Easpaig welcomed those present, many of whom will be participants in the cycle.

Cashel NS Principal, James McHugh, provided all the information on the cycle, thanking the sponsors - Talcon Group, Kelly's Corner, John Eoinin's, The Rusty Mackerel, Rossan Knitwear and Donegal e-bikes.

He said thanks to the sponsors, they will be able to supply jerseys for all the participants and provide food during and after the event on the day. Martin Cunningham, Vice-Principal of Scoil Náisiúnta na Carraige, provided the graphics on the big screen to show those present the routes picked and the reasons why.

James McHugh wished all the cyclists the best of luck and offered some advice on training schedules etc. He said: "€80,000 may sound daunting, but on the day it'll be fine, because it's not too fast. It's important to build up your training each week gradually. And if you can get up to around 50k then you will have no problem on the day."

Martin Cunningham stressed that there will be breaks every 15-20k so there will be the chance to recharge the batteries.

The organisational side of the day was also outlined with at least two motorbikes working and stewards at all the main junctions, allowing for easy passage. There will also be mechanical help for punctures, etc.

The fundraising target is €80,000 with each cyclist having a personal target of €1,000. Even within a few days of the launch the total raised so far was closing in on €10,000 so the organising committee are very hopeful of at least reaching their target.

A very informative website, ardorothar.com, has been set up with pictures of all the participating cyclists. Sponsorship details are available by just clicking on the pictures. Most of the sponsorship will be raised online but there will also be a facility to donate by cash through sponsorship cards.