The Ultra Cyclists are once again gearing up to undertake a ultra cycling challenge to raise funds for three mental health charities – Mindspace Mayo, Turn2me and Make the Moove, a Macra na Feirme mental health initiative.
This year, they will be cycling the Wild Atlantic Way covering 2,100km over 6.5 days, starting on Sunday, July 18 in Cork and finishing on Saturday, July 24 in Derry. This is not their first adventure, they have taken on an ultra-cycling challenge every year for the last 5 years.
Since 2016, they have completed 6,723 km over five different cycles in just 18 days in 5 different countries, while raising an incredible €172,456 for various local and national charities.
This year’s theme is based on promoting “self care - physical fitness and mental wellbeing” and the ultra cyclists have chosen 3 charity partners who offer confidential support to people in need and particularly those struggling with mental health.
Day four is a special day for the ultra cyclists as they set off on their 320km journey from Oranmore, Co. Galway and along the west coast through Clifden, Letterfrack, Leenaun, through Louisburg and into Westport where they will be joined by a group of sport enthusiasts (ex. Mayo footballers, cyclists, triathletes etc. ) who will join them and accompany them the last 65km through Newport, Mullranny and onto Achill island where they will finish their day in Keem bay.
"We are very appreciative of all the support from our sponsors, donators and followers who have been very generous and supported us along the way. This years theme is 'self care - physical fitness and mental wellbeing' and we are keen to raise awareness in this area and are delighted to be raising funds for the 3 deserving charities.
"This year, the ultra cycle is going to be bigger and better, the Wild Atlantic Way in just 6.5 days will be a huge task. Being from Mayo, we are really looking forward to Day 4 – both finishing the stage in Keem bay, probably the most scenic spot in Ireland and doing our bit for our local Mayo charity, Mindspace Mayo" said Alan Heaney, Ultra cyclist
Peadar Gardiner, Project Manager of Mindspace Mayo, said: "We are thrilled and so grateful to be chosen to benefit from the Mayo Ultra-Cyclists Challenge.
"The support of the Ultra Cyclists will allow us continue to grow and develop what we do with the aim of being able to support young people across county Mayo with their mental health.
The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted many young people’s lives and, while impacts are clearly evident there are likely to be longer term effects on young people. On behalf of all the management, staff and youth panel of Mindspace, thank you to everyone involved for your wonderful support."
For more info. on routes, dates, starts and stops, visit www.ultracylingforcharity.ie To donate, please click https://gofund.me/2a2e01a7. Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheUltraCyclists or Twitter @ultracyclists or on Instagram at the_ultra_cyclists
