CLIC Sargent Cycle Challenge - Malin to Mizen

Ulster and Ireland rugby star, Stephen Ferris swapped his rugby shirt for a cycling jersey this month to launch CLIC Sargent’s Malin to Mizen Cycle Challenge and asks you to go the extra 415 miles for children and young people with cancer.

Stephen is asking cyclists to take on the ultimate Irish cycle challenge from Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head to Mizen Head in the south. The seven day event will take place from 18-25 May 2013, is open to everyone and will see participants take on this legendary challenge which takes you through stunning Irish countryside.

The event was launched at Queen’s University Belfast. Local business Chain Reaction Cycles are lending their support to the event with great prizes for top fundraisers and will be on hand to offer expert advice on training and equipment.

Ireland and Ulster Rugby Player Stephen Ferris said; I am delighted to be launching CLIC Sargent’s Malin to Mizen Cycle Challenge. On average, families in Northern Ireland have to travel 95 miles, up to five times a week to access the cancer treatment they need for their sick child. Its 415 miles from Malin Head to Mizen Head; which is much less than the journey many families make every week. This thought will definitely help spur everyone on as they train for the challenge. This will be a fantastic experience for all participants as they get to see some of our beautiful countryside and of course enjoy the legendary Irish hospitality.”

Teresa Sloan, Appeal Director at CLIC Sargent added; “We are very excited that Stephen is supporting our Malin to Mizen Cycle Challenge. This is going to be a trip to remember, we hope to have 60 people take part and raise a significant amount of money for our Homes from Home Appeal. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness can join in. With the event taking place in May 2013 there’s lots of time to get ready and take part.

“Our aim is to build two Homes from Home close to the two main Belfast hospitals so that we can ease the financial and emotional burden on families at an already difficult time. All of the money raised through this event will go towards making that happen.”

Neil McGuigan, Chain Reaction Cycles Retail Manager lends their support; “Chain Reaction Cycles’ flagship Boucher Road store is immensely proud and honoured to be supporting the CLIC Sargent 2013 Malin to Mizen Challenge. As a local store and local business we believe that it’s fundamental we don’t just support, but help drive events and challenges, especially for such an important cause. Hopefully in the build up to the event we can help all participants with advice and equipment. This is very much a natural partnership for Chain Reaction Cycles and we look forward to building the event with CLIC Sargent over the coming years.”

Participants are asked to pay a registration fee of £195 and to pledge to raise a minimum sponsorship. You will be accompanied by a professional cycle leader who will organise all local transfers, accommodation, meals, plus a support team including a bike mechanic who will be on hand throughout the whole trip.

CLIC Sargent will be on hand every step of the way to support you with fundraising, training and fitness advice.

For more information contact Eimear McCooey at Eimear.mccooey [at] clicsargent.org.uk or call 028725780 or visit www.clicsargent.org.uk/northernirelandappeal