Ireland’s longest-running charity cycle returns this weekend

The Willow Wheelers, one of Ireland’s largest cycling clubs, will return to the road this weekend for its 33rd annual 100-mile charity cycle.

Following 2 years of virtual cycles, approximately 300 participants will be back on the saddle this Sunday 1st May to raise funds for water, health and education projects in Africa, South America and Southeast Asia.

Founded in 1989 by Christy McDaid, the Willow Wheelers comprises primarily of current and past students from Willow Park School and Blackrock College. Since its foundation, the number of participants in the annual cycle has grown from just 20 to over 400.

Since its inception, the club has raised over €2m for worthy causes throughout the world.

Cyclists will depart from Blackrock College at 8.45am on Sunday, traveling via Dublin city centre on route to Kinnegad, where they will take a short rest-stop before returning to Blackrock in the evening.

Unlike other similar fundraising events, the money generated from the cycle does not go to a charitable organisation. Instead, the club engages directly with Irish missionaries working in deprived areas of the world who need funding for local projects.

Each year, members of the club visit areas where they are providing funding to ensure the money is being put to good use.

Speaking in advance of the cycle, Christy McDaid, founder of the Willow Wheelers Cycling Club commented:

“We’re excited to get back on the bike this weekend for our 33rd 100-mile cycle – after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19.

“Funding for charitable projects throughout the world were significantly impacted by the pandemic, so we’re hoping for a big turnout this year to get our fundraising efforts for the projects we support firmly back on track.”