Lions Club cycle routes finalised

The routes for this year’s Mullingar Lions Club Summer Cycle Challenge have been finalised. The event is on bank holiday Monday, May 1, and there is a 100k loop and a 50k loop, starting and finishing at Shandonagh GAA.

All funds raised from the event will go towards Mullingar Lions Club’s project to provide respite and support for families dealing with special needs and autism.

Frank Dillon, event coordinator, said: “This is an area that we in the Lions Club have become very aware of over the last 10 years through our Family Support Programme. We realise the huge gap there for families seeking support and assessments, and we hope over the next year to provide valuable assistance that will relieve some of the stress and hardship that many face.

“So we are calling on all cyclists to come out on the first day of summer, have an enjoyable and fun cycle, while giving hope and support where it is very much needed.”

Frank said the 100k route was chosen for all cyclists relishing a good spin, and the 50k is for those who would enjoy a leisurely sportive.

The 100k route: registration from 9am on Monday May 1 at Shandonagh GAA Centre; starts 10am, Ballymore, Corr Cross, Mount Temple, Moate (food stop at Moate), Horseleap, Kilbeggan, Tyrrellspass, Rochfortbridge, Mullingar, via the Joe Dolan Bridge back to Shandonagh.

The 50k route: turn right from Shandonagh GAA and join the Old Rail Trail Greenway at Cleaboy, near Mullingar Equestrian Centre; follow the greenway to Rosemount, stop for refreshments at the cafe at Streamstown; return to Shandonagh by the same route.

Registration is €30, contact: Frank 087 6443742 or Kieran 087 2934963.