THEY came, they cycled and they conquered and for thousands of cyclists that tackled the Ring of Kerry yesterday, they have ensured that charity is the real winner.
Fundraisers of all ages and abilities took to the saddle to play their part and to test their stamina and endurance over the teak tough 180km route with organisers stressing that the number of participants was in the region of 11,000.
The majority set off shortly after dawn and many didn’t return until near dusk as everybody found their own level and pace and the overriding aim was fun as opposed to speed.
There was a magical atmosphere throughout the day with newly elected Mayor of Killarney, Brendan Cronin, Bishop Ray Browne and Kerry Rose Danielle O’Sullivan getting the cyclists on their way in Killarney town centre at 6.00am.
There was no shortage of food stops – official and otherwise – along the route to ensure the participants were well fed and well watered for the task at hand.
The main beneficiaries this year are the South West Counselling Centre, Killarney; Talbot Grove, Castleisland; St Joseph’s Nursing Home, Killorglin; St Ita and St Joseph’s School, Tralee; St Francis Special School, Beaufort; Recovery Haven Kerry, Pieta House Kerry branch, Irish Kidney Association Kerry branch, Derrynane Inshore Rescue and Aras Mhuire Nursing Home, Listowel.
* Photographer Valerie O’Sullivan made her own way along the Ring of Kerry to capture the magic of the occasion. Click on individual images to enlarge and for information.
