Charity cycle for Skerries teen

A FUNDRAISING campaign has been launched for a young local man with a passion for cycling.

A GoFundMe been set up to raise funds for Sean Byrne, a 16 year old from Skerries.

Sean has a rare genetic disorder, FARS 2 which among many things causes spastic diplegia.

Sean has been a full time wheelchair user since the age of 11.

Despite this, Sean has an unwavering passion for cycling.

Through Sean’s physio in the Central Remedial Clinic Sean was introduced to cycling using a tricycle aged 9.

Sean has always had a love for cycling but it was not until COVID restrictions that he was able to develop his technique and advance onto road cycling.

In November, 2020 Sean reached his 1,000km cycling goal.

The physical effort and energy that Sean needs to use, would equate this to 10,000kms of someone who is not physically disabled.

In June, 2021, Sean passed the 2,000km mark.

Sean is very dedicated, trains up to 4/5 times per week with his Dad, Barry usually for 1 hour sessions covering 12 to 15kms.

His current tricycle weighs 26kgs.

Any cyclist will know that this is quite a heavy load to carry with you in normal circumstances.

Swords Cycling Club and Velo Club Balrothery members suggested a fundraising cycle for Sean.

Paul Deans, from McNally Swords CC, is one of the organisers of the fundraising drive and he told Northside People how they plan to go about getting Sean his new bicycle.

“Sean is such an inspirational young man, he’s always in good form and everyone at the club thinks the absolute world of him. We hope that we can raise this money so he can continue doing something he loves,” Paul said.

“The difference that this would make to Sean’s quality of life also is immense.

“The fundraising cycling event will take place on Saturday, September 4, 2021.

“Starting at Man of War car park at 8.45am and finishing at Man of War car park.

“Sean’s sister, Ciara aged 11 has the same condition as Sean.

“Ciara is also a full time wheelchair user.

“Any excess funds raised will be managed and used for Sean and Ciara’s future.”

Any readers who would like to contribute please go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/seanscycleforatricycle