Last week saw the launch of this year’s Mayo Pink Ribbon and 2019 marks a significant year as the much-loved charity event is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
With over €900k raised to date, the committee is hoping to topple €1,000,000 at this year’s event. This is a phenomenal achievement from a committee that was set up to contribute to the much-needed funds for Breast Cancer research in the west of Ireland.
"There are so many families, friends, mothers and daughters affected by breast cancer", said Lourda McHugh, one of the founding members of Mayo Pink Ribbon. "Of course there are also many males affected by the disease also and this is not as well known," she added.
The event has attracted cyclists from all parts of Ireland and has been very well supported by all of the towns and villages along the routes. Former world number one cyclist, Sean Kelly, has been a regular guest but it is the leisure cyclists that have made the event such a great success and many of them cycle in the event and raise funds on an annual basis. Former Rose of Tralee, Maria Walsh, was one of the many participants last year.
McHugh added: "We’re committed to looking after the cyclists with good food, refreshments and a good old-fashioned welcome-back to each and every participant that crosses the line. The event starts and finishes once again at An Sportlann (McHale road ), Castlebar and there are two routes for the cyclists this year. There is a 50km route for the less-experienced and leisure cyclist and a 100km route for the more experienced and advanced cyclists.
"The event takes place on Saturday, May 4, which is the May Bank-Holiday weekend and of course this year will be really special as the committee have plans for a real ‘Carnival atmosphere’ to ensure that the participants can enjoy the 10th Anniversary celebrations."
To register for this year’s event simply go to the website: www.mayopinkribbon.ie
