Malachi back on his bike for Craigavon cancer charity cycle

The cycle will take place on May 11, starting and finishing at Lough Neagh Discovery Centre.

There are two cycle routes, an 80k and a 50k, so anyone over 16 can get involved. Cyclists will travel past Craigavon lakes, through Portadown, along the towpath and country roads to Waringstown. Those taking on the challenge of the longer route will divert through Moira and Aghalee before exploring the south east corner of Lough Neagh.

Mr O’Doherty has been a high-profile advocate of the benefits of cycling since returning to the saddle after a 30-year absence, and wrote a book ‘On My Own Two Wheels’ about his experiences.

He said, “There are times on a bike when you feel as you probably would on a hang glider, just rolling through countryside with sea breezes on your face. You turn a corner and suddenly there is no breeze at all, just the direct heat of the sun and you feel blessed to be alive.

“It’s great to hear about the care Marie Curie nurses give first hand. The importance of allowing patients a choice of where to spend their final days, and providing first-rate care and support for their families, should never be underestimated.”

The event is organised by volunteers with the aim of raising as much money as possible to support the crucial work of Marie Curie nurses.

Maggie Gordon has been volunteering at Marie Curie fundraising events for the past seven years. She said, “What the nurses do is amazing and knowing that all the money raised goes to help the Belfast hospice and the local nurses makes it really rewarding. The route is a little different this year so there are a few extra hills but the beautiful views around the shores of Lough Neagh make it more than worth it.”

Registration forms can be downloaded from http://tinyurl.com/craigavoncycle or by email from [email protected] or phone 028 9088 2077.

Those taking part are asked to sign in between 8.30am-10.30am.