Cyclists urged to get back in the saddle for Bike Week

ONE of the biggest duties on the cycling calendar was launched recently on the Northside.

Public Transport Minister, Alan Kelly, was at Our Lady of Victories Boys’ National School on the Ballymun Road for the launch of Bike Week 2012, which takes place across Ireland from June 16 to 24.

The launch of the week dedicated to the promotion of cycling in Ireland coincided with the minister’s announcement of e7 million in funding to improve cycling infrastructure across the country, with various on-road and off-road cycling infrastructure on the cards.

“This year’s Bike Week will be the best yet,

? the minister declared.

“Cycling is continuing to grow in popularity in Ireland. It’s practically free and it’s healthy. Bike Week gives everyone the opportunity to try cycling and to get involved in events in their local communities.

?

Free cycling events are being held during Bike Week throughout Ireland. The weeklong event promotes cycling as a healthy, low cost and fun way to get around.

“Whether for travel or for fun, cycling is one of the cheapest ways to get about and it has a proven health benefit with it,

? Minister Kelly added.

“Many commuters drive distances to work that could easily be cycled. Bike Week is a great time to dust the bike down and get back in the saddle.

?

Bike Week events include a night-time summer solstice cycle from Dundalk to Dublin on June 21, a weeklong cycling festival in Galway, lunchtime cycles in many cities and towns on Wednesday, June 21 and a Cycle to Work day.

The closing event for Bike week 2012 is a day of family cycling fun in the Phoenix Park on June 24, with a 42km cycle on and off road from the park for the more active family members.

All Bike Week events are free to the public and open to all.

Log on to Bikeweek.ie or facebook.ie/bikeweek.ie for the complete list of free events taking place throughout the country.