Taoiseach to get on his bike... for mental health awareness

The first ‘Tour of the Lakelands Cycle Challenge’ is set to take place on Saturday April 15 at 9am in aid of Good2Talk Mental Health Services in Mullingar and Longford and Pieta House in Athlone.

The cycle will incorporate three legs (Mullingar to Athlone, Athlone to Longford and Longford back to Mullingar) is set to attract a large crowd of cycling enthusiasts and families.

An Taoiseach Enda Kenny has confirmed he will be taking on the ‘Tour of the Lakelands Cycle Challenge’ after he was invited by organisation committee member and local Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy.

“The thought behind the cycle is not only to raise funds for Good2Talk and Pieta House, but also to raise awareness in a joint advocacy capacity for mental health issues in the midlands of Ireland,” said Deputy Troy.

“I am delighted the taoiseach has agreed to participate as we are hoping to attract across-the-board support for the event, which we envisage growing into an annual awareness fundraiser for mental health services in the midlands.”

Pat Gavin, CEO of Good2Talk, explained how all help is needed to develop the event into a successful fundraiser, and a showcase of what the Lakelands has to offer.

“We are delighted that the ‘Tour of the Lakelands’ has been officially launched and want to thank all committee members and supporters for helping us get it this far,” he said.

“We are now taking registration online at eventbrite.ie – click on ‘Tour of the Lakelands’ or at the ‘Tour of the Lakeland’ Facebook page”.

“We are also looking for people to sign up as volunteers to help on the day. We really need all the help and support we can get to make sure this inaugural event takes off and reaches its full potential by bringing our three towns and surrounding villages together in solidarity for mental health awareness.

“If interested in helping out, please contact Gary Gorman of Good2Talk at gary2gorman@hotmail.com or Aideen Ginnell on aideenginnell@outlook.com.”

Participants in the Tour of the Lakelands can do one of the legs, which are approximately 45km each, or all three and 140km.

Professional race jerseys are available to purchase in advance and sponsorship cards are also available.

All proceeds will go the Good2Talk Mullingar and Longford and Pieta House in Athlone, who both provide affordable mental health services in the midlands.

For more information please visit our Facebook page or contact: aideenginnell@outlook.com or gary2gorman@hotmail.com.