Clifden RNLI was delighted to accept the sum of €3,774 raised by the Connemara based Twelve Bens Cycling Club after a unique and testing fundraising challenge.
On Sunday, September 6th, 12 cyclists from the club undertook an innovative cycling challenge consisting of 12 laps of the 'Sky Road' loop, so-called due to its steep hill climbs along the well known scenic route.
Beginning and ending at the Clifden Bike Shop on Market St, the cyclists completed twelve laps of the 17-kilometre route which presented a testing 230 metres of elevation per lap.
The participating cyclists were Ciarán Hickey, Daniel King, Dara O Donoghue, Finian Sheridan, John Gallagher, John James Flaherty, Johnny King, Nick Finney, Rob King (RNLI Area Lifeboat Manager), Simon Ashe, Simon O' Hora and Willie O'Hora.
The group were joined by some support cyclists and stewards and a small outdoor gathering of socially distanced supporters to encourage them in their challenge, which they hoped to achieve in less than 12 hours.
Event organiser Simon O Hora said 'We came up with a challenge we could do locally as travelling for training wasn't an option due to Covid 19 restrictions. As a club, we wanted to do something that would push ourselves mentally and physically and one where we could see the sea on every lap-to remind us why we were doing it.
It was certainly challenging at times but ultimately it was a rewarding endeavour and we were really glad to have been able to raise this sum for the RNLI'.
A further €520 was collected in RNLI buckets on the day and the weary cyclists fully completed their epic challenge in 10 hours and 12 minutes.
Speaking on behalf of Clifden RNLI, Catherine Pryce said 'In this most challenging year for all charities, the Twelve Bens challenge has provided a very welcome donation to the local Clifden lifeboat crew. It was an extremely well-run event, all carried out within the necessary public health guidelines and we congratulate the cyclists on their achievement and thank all who donated for their ongoing support'.