After departing London on the morning of 30 September, the 45+ cyclists and 20+ support team arrived safely to their final destination of Ballaghaderreen Gaelic club house on Saturday 5 October.
In support of two worthy causes, Motor Neurone Disease and Alzheimer’s, the event succeeded in bringing together individuals, businesses and organisations from the Irish community in Britain, New York and Ireland to raise vital funds for the charities, as well as raising awareness of these two devastating diseases.
Green Hearts were delighted to be the official health partner for the team. Our volunteer Dr. Aisling Hillary took part in the cycle and our health office Marie joined the support team on the last leg of their journey from Dublin to Roscommon.
“Having the support of Green Hearts from the initial idea stage has been incredible, the health and welfare of the team was a big priority and having Dr. Aisling Hillary on board was a great reassurance to us all!” Organiser Finbar Holian from the Claddagh Ring pub in Hendon.
Irish in Britain’s member organisation, the Liverpool Irish Centre, also supported the cause by hosting a reception for the team on night three of their journey. The home–cooked meal and live music was gladly received!
The team were treated to a special reception at Croke Park in Dublin before they set off on the Irish leg of the cycle. Representatives from Croke Park and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association affirmed the importance and power of community action in addressing public health challenges. Following the reception, a Garda escort led the team safely out of the city as they headed West.
The hundreds of people that lined the streets to welcome the bikers in to Ballaghaderren was a testament to the impact the cycle has had on raising awareness and garnering support for both causes.
Well done to all involved in this tremendous initiative and, of course, we hope everyone keeps up the cycling!
Find out more about the bike ride here and download the Green Hearts 30–Day Challenge guide here.