Endurance legend Barr in May Fair challenge

Staged as part of the town's historic annual fair, the May Fair Challenge will be held in aid of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children (NICFC) and aims to raise cash to help cancer care and support for children and their parents.

Joe, a former professional cyclist and Commonwealth Games medallist ,is planning to take part.

The event - which is supported by Newtownabbey Borough Council - features a 100k route which not only shows the best of our local and surrounding areas, but offers a challenging ride for experienced cyclists without doing so at the cost of those who are newer to the sport.

A 20k ride for families is also included so younger cyclists and their parents can enjoy the event.

Guest of Honour Joe Barr said: “It is a great honour to be asked by King Moss to come along and help promote a new event which is directly assisting the NICFC.

“I have some great memories being part of Northern Ireland teams in various international races over the years where Kings Moss club members were team officials, Joe Hadden, Joe Cooke, Wilbert Cobaine to name a few.

“I am sure the event and the day will be very successful and I would encourage all riders who are free that day to come along and put their support behind a much needed and worth-while cause.”

Naomi Braithwaite, Community Fundraiser at NICFC commented: “We are delighted to be associated with Kings Moss cycling club, and would encourage cycling enthusiasts to come out and support the event.

“Each week in Northern Ireland two children or young people are diagnosed with cancer . The NICFC provides practical, emotional and financial support to these young people and their families and your support will make a real difference,”

Kings Moss Cycling Club Chairman Tony Douglas concluded: "It is our privilege to do everything we can to support the excellent work of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children and, if his schedule allows it, we’d be delighted to welcome Joe to the event.

“Although the excellent route we have put together will challenge the more experienced riders, we will make sure to look out for beginners, too.

"After all, County Antrim has some stunning roads for cycling, and we want to play host to as many riders as possible, from near and far, in aid of a very good cause," he said.

The Kings Moss Cycling Club May Fair Challenge leaves Ballyclare Rugby Club on Saturday 29th May at 10am. Sign-on is from 8.30am at the same venue.

The sportive will feature a support car, refreshments, race marshals and supervision provided by veteran club members.

A strictly limited number of entries are now available - advance registration is advised through www.entrycentral.com to avoid disappointment as entries may close prior to the event.

Please see www.kingsmosscyclingclub.co.uk will also be updated closer to the event. Entry is 10 for adults (100k) and 5 for adults or families using the shorter route. Sponsorship can be collected by entrants if an official sponsor form from the club is used, please email [email protected]. Donations can be made through www.justgiving.com/kingsmosscyclingclub.