Galway Cycle 2012

Big-hearted comic PJ Gallagher joined the president and students of NUI Maynooth on Tuesday in launching their 25th annual Galway Cycle in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland.

Thousands of students, former and current, have been cycling the 400km round trip from the Co. Kildare college to and from Galway on the last weekend of March every year since 1987.  In that time they've raised almost €750,000 for a variety of charities. There's even one cyclist who's done all 24, Armagh-man Martin Rock!

It's expected that more than 150 cyclists will line up early on Friday, March 23 next to make the trip to Galway in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland.

"We are delighted to have been selected by the Galway Cycle as their chosen charity, particularly on this the 25th anniversary of the event," Pat Clarke, Chief Executive of Down Syndrome Ireland noted.  "These are difficult economic times for every family, particularly those who have a child with a disability. With ever more cuts in services, our 3,000 members are increasingly reliant on Down Syndrome Ireland to give them the vital services and supports they may not be receiving"

Anyone who thinks they can help in any little way should go to www.galwaycycle.ie.