TWO local cancer charities have benefited from an epic cycle undertaken recently by members of a Clare cycling club.
On the last Saturday in August, members of Riverside Cycling Club Ennistymon undertook the huge challenge of cycling from their home town all the way to Croagh Patrick in Westport, Co Mayo.
As if the total distance of around 175km wasn’t enough, the group then went on to climb Croagh Patrick in the same day.
All this was in aid of some very worthy local cancer care charities – Cancer Care West, and Sláinte an Chláir, that have greatly helped some of the club’s past and present members.
One member in particular had a very important and relative story to tell to highlight his appreciation for both organisations with his recent health scare in 2020.
Tony Shannon spoke very candidly in advance of the event on Clare FM about his own struggle with receiving the bad news that he had prostrate cancer.
Tony highlighted the great support and care he received from both Cancer Care West and Sláinte an Chláir in helping him come to terms with the news and cope with the psychological impact of dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
Tony spoke from the heart and it was with this in mind the that a dedicated group of cyclists took to the road last Saturday week leaving Ennistymon at 6am.
Making great time along the way they stopped for breakfast in Sullivan’s Hotel in Gort – which was very kindly sponsored by the hotel.
Another short stop in Claregalway picked up two more participants along the way, and onto Headford via Corrandulla.
Another stop for coffee and scones (provided by John and Bernie O’Looney) in Ballinrobe kept the group going until Westport before they finally arrived at the foot of Croagh Patrick in Murrisk, Co. Mayo around 1pm.
A very enjoyable and safe cycle was enjoyed by all, aided by perfect conditions on the day.
A short break for more sustenance was had before tackling the 764m climb to the top of Croagh Patrick.Tony himself had to be talked out of cycling the journey home again – thankfully he took sound advice to stay the night in Westport.
All cyclists were expertly backed up by Dave Barry driving the support van, keeping all safe on the road.
The participants of Riverside Sea to Summit 2022 are: Tony Shannon, Micheal Egan, Tom Barry, Kevin Duffy, Austin Vaughan, John O’Looney, Martin Clancy, Deirdre Hynes, and Teresa Morrissey.
The group gave a big thanks to all who helped in any way. Donations can still be made via Go Fund Me – Riverside Sea to Summit . All money donated will go directly to Cancer Care West and Sláinte an Chláir.