The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
THE inaugural Michael Howley Walk, Run and Cycle takes place in Ennistymon on Sunday, April 21 from 10am in memory of the late Michael from Ballyvraneen, who passed away on March 29, 2012, at the age of 49.
A very popular local man, Michael was the eldest of five children born to the late Martin and Ann. His brothers, John and Martin, still live with their families in Ennistymon, while his sisters, Ann Duggan and Mary Griffin, reside in Mullagh and Miltown Malbay respectively. Michael was educated at Furglan National School and the Vocational School, Ennistymon.
After leaving school, he worked for Eircom in Limerick and Dublin right up until his illness in 2010. He was always dedicated to his work with Eircom and to part-time work on his farm, which he loved to return to on weekends and holidays.
Michael was a great GAA follower, particularly the Clare hurlers and footballers, and the only times he was absent from Ballyvraneen or Ennistymon was on weekends when Clare were playing in Croke Park or other venues around the country. He was also a keen cyclist and took part in many charity events, including the Dublin to Belfast cycle.
The Michael Howley Walk, Run and Cycle is a memorial charity, sporting and leisure event and is a fitting tribute to a man who was much admired and respected in his local community and in his various working locations.
The organisations that will benefit are local charity Friends of Ennistymon Hospital and Brú Columbanus, which provides home from home accommodation for the families of seriously-ill patients in any of the Cork hospitals or hospice. Michael’s family were able to avail of this service during his illness in Cork and have said they will be forever grateful to Brú Columbanus for their kindness and help at that difficult time.
“The more people who take part, the more the very worthy charities will benefit so get your walking, running or biking gear and head to Ennistymon on April 21. A great day is assured for one of life’s true gentlemen, the late Michael Howley,” said Dinny Cullinane, one of the organisers.
The event is being promoted by the newly formed Riverside Cycling Club in Ennistymon. Organised cycles take place from the church car park at 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and at 10am on Sundays and all levels of cyclists are welcome.
The members received a boost on Saturday last when the winner of the Tour de France, Giro de Italia and former world cycling champion, Stephen Roche were present to launch the newly formed club and charity day.
Registration takes place at Ennistymon Community Centre on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 from 8pm to 9pm and on Sunday, April 21 from 9am. Participants can also register online and anyone wishing to donate online can do so at www.riversidecycling.com.
