Locals urged to sign up to Olympic cycle

THE launch of the inaugural Dundalk to Scarva Cycle Challenge in aid of the Special Olympics was attended by the Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council, Councillor John McArdle, Feargal McCormack and Paddy Harty of FPM, Special Olympics volunteer Paddy Duffy and Special Olympics athlete Jonathon Evans.

The event, which is sponsored by FPM, will take place on Saturday September 1 and is open to cycling enthusiasts of all levels. The 90km route will take in the fabulous surrounds of Ravensdale National Park and Flagstaff then through Newry and onto the Towpath to Scarva.

There will be two different routes on offer on the return section of the cycle; the one for seasoned cyclists looking for a challenge take on the hills around Long Women’s Grave and then back to Dundalk while the alternative routes brings you back through Ravensdale to Dundalk Stadium. A detailed breakdown of both routes is available on www.speciaolympics.ie/dundalkcycle.

Both itineraries will provide a good test for cyclists of all levels, with professional support in the form of roadside assistance, support vehicles, and refreshments stops along the way. Every cyclist that completes the challenge will receive a commemorative T-shirt and a Certificate of Completion as well as a warm invitation to the post-cycle buffet which will take place in Dundalk Race Course.

Places for this challenge are limited and can only be guaranteed by registering in advance. To reserve your place visit www.specialolympics.ie/dundalkcycle.

Note there is a registration fee of €25/£20 and all the money raised through registration fees and sponsorship will help to fan the flame for Special Olympics Ireland and ensure that people with an intellectual disability will have the opportunity to participate in sports training and competition in their local area.