Getting on their bike to help raise funds for Bann Rowing Club

The intrepid bunch will cycle a distance of almost 300 miles, to raise funds for Bann Rowing Club.

Launching the fundraising campaign, East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden said: “I am delighted to launch this effort to raise funds for our future Olympians at Bann Rowing Club.

“It is fantastic to see local sports supporting each other. Rowing in Coleraine continues to succeed on a global platform and interest in cycling has grown phenomenally.

“We have a strong sporting community on the North Coast and this fundraising marathon is one example of great team spirit in this area. Good luck to all the cyclists!”

Bann Rowing Club Chairman, Keith Leighton said: “This is a fantastic offer of fundraising support from the Bann Wheelers cyclists and comes at just the right time.

“We are trying raise funds to upgrade our fleet with the purchase of two new double sculls.

“These will cost approximately £20,000 and are necessary for our rowers to remain competitive at Irish Championship level.

“We wish the cycling team success and a following wind, and hope that their magnificent effort will be well supported.”

One of the cyclists and a Bann Rowing Club member Julie Campbell said: “As a coach at Bann for over ten years I have seen the incredible commitment that our young club members show in their training and dedication to their rowing.

“Events like this raise important funds to help them realise their individual and collective aspirations”