Special cycle ride marked

A nephew of cycling legend Isabel Woods from Lisburn made a surprise visit when he joined family and friends to take part in a special cycle ride to mark the 60th anniversary of her record breaking achievement.
Jo Smith of Boom Foundation, May Farrar, and Isabel Woods.Jo Smith of Boom Foundation, May Farrar, and Isabel Woods.
Jo Smith of Boom Foundation, May Farrar, and Isabel Woods.

Norman Surplus, from Larne flew fom America to take part in the last leg of the cycle.

He interrupted his round-the-world gyro-copter record trip which has been part of his own quest to raise money and awareness for bowel cancer.

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It was 60 years ago, when Isabel now 86, cycled her End to End Challenge on a gruelling ride from Mizen Head in Cork to Fair Head Co Antrim in 23 hours and three minutes.

David Surplus (OBE), Rosie Woods, Nora Crammond, Sheena Woods, Isabel Woods, Sarah Crammond, Christine Laubach and Micheal Woods.).David Surplus (OBE), Rosie Woods, Nora Crammond, Sheena Woods, Isabel Woods, Sarah Crammond, Christine Laubach and Micheal Woods.).
David Surplus (OBE), Rosie Woods, Nora Crammond, Sheena Woods, Isabel Woods, Sarah Crammond, Christine Laubach and Micheal Woods.).

Isabel’s nearest and dearest wanted to commemmorate such a special event so cycled the same route in June.

They were divided into three groups and started at various times but all 18 of them, finished together at Fair Head, thanks to their gritty determination on Saturday June 27, tired, but happy and fulfilled.

Isabel with her husband Peter met the tired cyclists at the finishing line.

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Norman, who joined the cyclists at the last leg of the cycle said, “I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”

Isabel Woods with family and friendsIsabel Woods with family and friends
Isabel Woods with family and friends

Marking the 60th Anniversary evoked many lovely memories for Isabel too who, despite being partially slighted, still manages to lead a very active life.

“I would like to thank all those who participated, supported and donated towards the event,” said Isabel.

To date sponsorship from family and friends has raised over £8500 for two chosen charities MacMillan Cancer Care, who support patients and families affected by cancer, and The Boom Foundation who support people in Northern Ireland who are affected by Sarcoma, a rare form of Cancer.

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