On Valentine's Day last year, the inaugural Saddle Up for Epilepsy cycle took place in Castlebar. Supporting Epilepsy Ireland, the event was a huge success attracting cyclists from all over Ireland who registered to participate in the first national cycle for Epilepsy Ireland. Feedback from participants was extremely encouraging and the organisers now plan to make Saddle up for Epilepsy 2016 even bigger. Its success was thanks to sponsorship, local fundraising, community volunteering, and the support of celebrities such as Joe Schmidt, Rick O’Shea, Sean Kelly and Taoiseach Enda Kenny who opened the event. The organisers are delighted that these patrons have renewed their support in 2016.
"The dedication of Brenda Quigg and her team is inspiring. They are rapidly making Saddle Up for Epilepsy one of our most successful fundraising events, with all funds going towards STEPS, our epilepsy-self management programme for people with epilepsy and parents of children with epilepsy. This new flagship service has already been shown to make a huge difference to the lives of people living with epilepsy. Not only that, the event is instrumental in raising awareness and improving understanding of epilepsy, an often hidden, misunderstood, and stigmatised condition," says Peter Murphy, deputy CEO - Epilepsy Ireland.
The event is aimed at cyclists of all abilities from club cyclists looking for an early-season ride to those who simply enjoy a short spin on the bike. There will be two routes, a 68km and 128km, to ensure that everyone can take part while raising awareness of epilepsy and funds for the charity. Raising awareness of epilepsy and promoting positive messages to those who live with the condition is therefore is an important goal of the event.
This year's event takes on Saturday February 27 at the Breaffy Sports Arena. If you would like to register for the event online, entry is only €40, just go to www.saddleupforepilepsy.com or you can register on the morning of the cycle from 7.30am to 8.30am for €50.
