The race is on to find the fastest team in the west of Ireland as Galway Samaritans launches its 40th anniversary cyclathon challenge.
Some 100 teams will assemble in Eyre Square on Saturday (April 30 ) at 10am to compete on exercise bikes in a series of ten 40-minute races throughout the day.
Forty of Galway’s All-Ireland medal winning stars over the past few decades will also saddle up to support Galway Samaritans in raising awareness and much-needed funds.
The Connolly brothers, Iggy Clarke, Ja Fallon, Gerry McInerney, Ray Silke, Sharon Glynn, Derek Savage, Therese Maher, and Annette Clarke are a few who will get on their bikes against members of the current Galway team in the ‘race of champions’.
Teams are invited to attend by registering at sams40.com and it is hoped local businesses, gyms and sports clubs will take part on the day.
The Samaritans’ marquee, which will host the cyclathon, will also provide teas/coffees and cakes, a Galway photo exhibition, and a number of guest speakers on the day culminating in a light show finale.
Brent Pope, rugby pundit and a spokesperson for mental health issues, will be talking about his own difficulties in this area, while Galway County Mayor Peter Roche will share his experience of raising awareness on crisis support and suicide prevention services.
The event begins at 10am in Eyre Square with the launch in the marquee followed by the first race of the day. The Galway Rose of Tralee entrants will be there to offer their support.
Samaritans provides a 24-hour service to help anyone in distress or despair. The local branch at 14 Nuns Island is currently under renovation and is looking for funds to complete the work and continue its work in Galway for another 40 years.
People who cannot make it on the day, but would like to contribute, can do so online at www.idonate.ie/galwaysamaritans or by sending the donation by post to No 12 Dock Street, Galway.
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.
