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Members of The Chain Gang taking part in the Valley 70 Cycle. Photo: Timmy Dowd
THE annual Valley 70 Cycle, now in its 6th year, was held last on a bright and sunny Sunday morning in Fossa as 220 cyclists from Kerry, Limerick, Cork and even County Carlow set off on the 70km route through the Gap of Dunloe which is consistently voted one Ireland’s most scenic.
This year, there were a host of younger faces and families doing the new 30km flat route. School Principal Irene O’Keeffe addressed the cyclists before roll off as she dedicated this year’s event to the late Carmella Sheehy who passed away in April: “Although Carmella is not with us today, she is with us in spirit. She radiated huge positivity in every aspect of her life”.
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Weather for the most part held up, while Pat O’Leary (from Pat O’Leary Catering Equipment) was on hand to hand out free cones to the returning cyclists – who despite getting wet in the rain showers still tucked into his delicious ice cream!
With a 40 strong volunteer team – visibility and safety in all aspects of the event was carefully managed while the catering team prepared a range of gluten free and vegetarian options in addition to the usual offerings.
Special thanks was expressed to all those who donated, supported, volunteered, cycled and to the many local cycling clubs that showed great support for this annual event.
100% of the monies are used to resource Coolick National School in Kilcummin. The committee would also like to acknowledge the generosity of the many sponsors of the event – including lead sponsors Aherns Garage and Leane’s Kitchens and Bedrooms.
