29thMay – 1stJune 2008
Charity Cycle
in aid of

NEUROFIBROMATOSIS

BACKGROUND

I decided to organise the Malin – Mizen Cycle Challenge in an effort to support the invaluable work undertaken by the Neurofibromatosis Association of Ireland. Neurofibromatosis or (NF for short) is a little known genetic disorder affecting 2000 approximately adults and children throughout Ireland. There is no cure for NF moreover our health professionals don’t have an understanding of the condition and therefore many patients can feel isolated and alone and rely on the Neurofibromatosis Association for advice, support and guidance. In an effort to address the dearth of knowledge among the medical profession, to help create awareness and provide information for families the association has undertaken to host the next European Conference on Neurofibromatosis. The event, which runs over four days, takes place in Killarney next autumn. Costing in excess of €165,000, this is a significant logistical undertaking and a financial challenge for the association, hence my motivation to organise the Malin – Mizen Cycle Challenge in support of this deserving cause.

Thank you in advance for your support

Paddy Griffin

The Event

The event will take place over 4 days

Cyclists will depart Malin Head on the first leg of the cycle at 2pm on Thursday 29th May arriving at Mizen Head on Sunday 1st June.

The event takes in the June Bank Holiday weekend therefore we are hoping that families will come along to support the participants and that supporters will travel to Mizen Head to greet the cyclists and celebrate their achievement.

Route

The route has yet to be decided mainly because I want to discuss preferences with cyclists. Once I have compiled a list of participants I will circulate a list of possible routes – (no later than the end of February).

Distance

400 Ml’s approximately depending on route

Who can participate?

The event is intended as a "cycle challenge" and therefore we plan to cater for two categories:

  • Group 1: Cyclists who have a reasonable amount of miles in their legs and who feel they are sufficiently fit to complete the event.
  • Group 2: Expereienced cyclists who enjoy the challenge of a brisk cycle but who are prepared to work as a team.

Back up

  • Depending on requirements the association will supply transport to get participants from Dublin to Malin Head also on the return trip from Mizen Head to Dublin.
  • Backup vehicles will at all times accompany both groups
  • Accommodation will be pre booked by the organisers however it will be the responsibility of participants to pay for their own accommodation, mid-day and evening meal etc. This will give cyclists the flexibility to decide on where they wish to stay, restaurants / meals etc.
  • Some food and light refreshments will be supplied on route compliments of the organisers.

What you need for the trip

  • A light weight racing bike, in good condition, suitably equipped for the trip
  • Helmet
  • At least one change of cycling gear, two spare tubes, tyre leavers, water bottles.
  • Some spare parts will be available; those wishing to supply their own can store them in the lead car.
  • Casual attire for the evenings.
  • Money
  • The organisers will supply NF t-shirts - please advise size and number required

How much does it cost?

  • Each participant is expected to raise a minimum of €750
  • A deposit of €150 must reach the association no later than Friday 14th March
  • B x B Thursday, Friday & Saturday Night – to be advised
  • For those staying over on Sunday night the association will host a celebratory meal and present a memento of the trip to all participants, location etc to be advised

Safety

The safety of the organisers and cyclists is paramount to the success of the event, therefore it is expected that all participants observe the rules of the road and in the interest of safety of others abide by the directions and advice of the Group Leader. Backup vehicles will be equipped with first aid kits and some spare parts for bikes etc. However the onus will be on each participant to ensure their bike is in a road worthy condition with particular attention to the braking mechanism, tyres, chains, gears etc.

Helmets are compulsory on this trip – no one will be permitted to ride the event without a helmet

Summary

The organisers will do their utmost to make the Malin – Mizen Cycle Challenge an exciting and fun event. Malin - Mizen in four days is no mean feat – a trip one can boast about to family and friends for years to come. However, in the interest of safety numbers may have to be capped and therefore applications to participate in the event will be treated on a first come basis.

As interest develops an organising committee will be set up and further details about the route, accommodation, transport etc will be released. It’s my intention to take advice and accommodate people’s requirements where possible.

So why not start preparing now, if I can be of assistance to those trying to fundraise please let me know. If you don’t have a training plan contact me and I will do my utmost to help.

Currently I’m trying to source a sponsor and if there is anybody out there who would like to come on board as a sponsor please let me know.

Already10 cyclists have expressed an interest in the event.

I would like to thank all my cycling colleagues in advance for their support.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Paddy Griffin

Event Organiser

Tel: 353 1 845 2195

353 87 2373269

Email: griffgriff@eircom.net