special cyclathon will take place in Galway next month to mark 40 years of voluntary work by the Samaritans.
The work of the volunteers who man the helpline and the reason why they do it will be highlighted this special event taking place in Eyre Square, Galway, on April 30.
Irish Times journalist and Galway native Conor Pope will welcome special guests, rugby pundit Brent Pope and Galway county mayor Peter Roche, who will share their own life experiences, letting everyone know that it is important to seek help in times of trouble.
The Sams40 event will kick off at 10am with the first of 10 cyclathon races - 10 teams will compete against each other on exercise bikes, cycling for 40 minutes, striving to win the Green Jersey for Galway Samaritans. The exercise bikes have been provided by BikeFit in Oranmore and the plan is to run 10 such races throughout the day, going right up until 8pm that evening.
Businesses, sports groups, organisations and the public can show their support for the work of the Helpline and enter a team. Lifes2Good, The Bodyworks Gym,and Valeo and have already registered, while some that 40 All Ireland Galway medal winners have signed up too. It is hoped up to 100 teams from local businesses and sports clubs will take part.
Samaritans provides help for anyone in distress or despair and is there 24 hours a day. The local branch at 14 Nuns Island is currently under renovation and is looking for funds to complete the work and continue its work for another 40 years.
To register a team log on to www.sams40.com and pay the entrance fee of €100 (refundable to the winning team ). And for those who do not want to cycle, but make a donation, log on to iDonate.ie/galwaysamaritans For those who have ideas of ways to help raise funds or awareness, email [email protected],
Samaritans provides non-judgmental, confidential support. Call Freephone number 116123, email [email protected], or call in to talk to someone in person at the temporary home at No 12 Dock Street, Galway.
