The picturesque west coast of Ireland was recently graced with an extraordinary sight – 50 brave souls taking on the much anticipated On Yer Bike cycling event and pedalling their way from Leitrim to Killarney along the fabulous scenery of the Atlantic Way.
The three day 350km (220 miles) challenge, was originally the brainchild of Stephen Gallagher, Director of Gallagher Group and Eddie McGillycuddy, Director of Glencar and first took place in 2022.
Due to popular demand the event was soon in the calendar for 2023.
Starting at the historic Lough Rynn Castle Hotel in Co. Leitrim on May 16, the riders set off with a target to raise over €200,000 for the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity.
The weather gods, often fickle in this part of the world, blessed the event with dry skies and even a rare appearance from the sun.
Day 1: Lough Rynn Castle to Loughrea (118km, 74 miles, 718m climb)
The first leg of the journey saw our intrepid cyclists tackling 118 kms to Loughrea. Spirits were high as the group, including the retired charity CEO and now Honorary Vice President Bill Hill set out. Bill said: “It’s just like a Sunday ride, only 100 times longer.”
Day 2: Loughrea to Doonbeg (123km, 77 miles)
Day two was a test of endurance with a 123-km ride to Doonbeg. The scenic route, filled with rolling hills and cheering locals and the stunning Cliffs of Moher, kept the cyclists motivated. For those cyclists who weren’t naturally aerodynamic, inspiration came from the cheering roadside supporters and the thoughts of a warming shower and a comfortable bed.
Day 3: Doonbeg to Killarney (113km, 71 miles)
The final stretch from Doonbeg to Killarney covered 113kms and was the ultimate test of grit, battling long uphill stretches and very short fast downhills with aching muscles.
The day was punctuated by a short boat ride from Killimer to Tarbert. Despite the pain and the fatigue of the previous days the end was in touching distance and all the challengers pushed through to the finish line at the Aghadoe Heights Hotel.
The event concluded with a grand gala dinner at Aghadoe Heights Hotel in Killarney, where tales of the road were swapped, and pints of Guinness were raised in celebration.
Stephen Gallagher, Director of the Gallagher Group toasted “to sore legs, epic views, and unforgettable memories” and Eddie McGillycuddy Director at Glencar Construction responded with “let’s do this again in 2025!”
The On Yer Bike Cycling Challenge not only showcased the stunning beauty of Ireland’s Atlantic Way but also highlighted the power of community and the spirit of giving.
With a collective effort, the participants successfully raised funds and awareness for the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, making every kilometre worth the effort.
