A four-day charity cycle covering a distance of 540km from Portlaoise to Paris got underway on Wednesday morning last, September 20.
The primary goal of the cycle is to raise crucial funds for the Down Syndrome Centre Midlands.
Conor McGarry, David Phelan and Johan Erasmus, all employees of Powerpoint Engineering, Portlaoise, were the driving force behind the initiative.
Inspired by their colleague, Stradbally legend Sean Conlan, a member of Down Syndrome Midlands, and his parents Margaret and Maurice, they are using pedal power to bring in funds for the charity.
“Down Syndrome Centre Midlands is Ireland’s first services-led centre for children with Down Syndrome aged 18 and under and helps provide vital family focused services to help children with Down Syndrome reach their full potential in a positive manner,” said Conor.
This marks the third consecutive year that the three colleagues have embarked on a charity cycle.
Last year’s cycle took them from Malin Head in Donegal to Slea Head in the Dingle Peninsula, raising an impressive €20,000 for Down Syndrome Centre Midlands.
The funds contributed to speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, sports activities and social outings for children and their families.
Conor, David, and Johan have taken on Portlaoise to Paris in this year’s 530km cycle, with the support of Deirdre O’Gorman and Denise Grattan who are accompanying the cyclists, ensuring that they have the necessary equipment, stay well hydrated and are fully prepared for every day’s cycling.
Leading up to the cycle, the trio made a concerted effort to spend as much time as possible on their bikes, engaging in several lengthy cycles as part of their preparation.
Striking the right balance was crucial to prevent any injuries before embarking on their journey.
The first leg of the cycle, spanning 150km from Portlaoise to Rosslare Harbour, has been completed.
After an overnight ferry journey to Cherbourg, docking on Thursday afternoon, the trio cycled 100km to Bayeux.
Despite encountering choppy waters, the team’s spirits remained high and the colleagues are all looking forward to completing the next leg of their journey.
On day three of their charity cycle, Conor, David and Johan will cover a substantial distance of 165km, cycling from the picturesque of Bayeux to the charming destination of Évreux.
This leg of their adventure promises a mix of scenic landscapes, and the physical challenges that come with such an extended cycle. Here they will rest overnight and refuel for the final leg of their journey.
On the fourth and final day of the cycle, Saturday 23, Conor, David, and Johan will tackle the remaining 112 km taking them from Évreux to Paris.
This final stretch will test their determination and endurance, as they push themselves towards their goal.
Johan expressed his gratitude for the response to the fundraiser.
“We are deeply thankful for the overwhelming support we’ve received so far and are thrilled to have raised just over €30,000 for the Down Syndrome Centre Midlands.”
The funds will be put to excellent use in delivering crucial support and services to individuals with Down Syndrome and their families, David said.
“They include strengthening, educational, social, and healthcare avenues for the families and empowering individuals with Down Syndrome to achieve their full potential in a positive manner.”
David Murray, one of the founders of the Down Syndrome Centre Midlands, and the current chairperson, emphasised the life-changing impact of the funds raised.
“The centre serves over 70 families in six counties, providing necessary therapy and support to children while reducing waiting times. Parents share the cost of therapy, with the funds raised contributing significantly to this cause.”
Anyone who would like to contribute should follow the link below:
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