Cystic Fibrosis Charity Cycle Kentucky and Ireland

Two parallel cycling events have been organised for the 5th of April in Ireland (Dublin to Wexford) and the 27th of April in Kentucky(Churchill Downs to Keeneland) . These events are to raise money for families who are affected by Cystic Fibrosis in Wexford and to raise awareness of the poor facilities in Irish hospitals for C.F. sufferers.

These charity cycles were organised by the family and friends of Tracie Lawlor from Wexford, Ireland who sadly passed on the 10th November 2007. Tracie lived a full and vibrant life which was in no way defined by her illness. Those who were lucky enough to know her were inspired by her enduring spirit and irresistible charm. Tracie is the inspiration behind these events which we hope will make a significant difference in the hometown of our dear friend.

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disease which affects the lungs and digestive system. Almost one in twenty people are carriers, and where two carriers have a child there is a one in four chance of that child having this life-threatening disease. Ireland has the highest incidence of cystic fibrosis in the world (30 to 40 children are born with CF every year) yet the life expectancy of CF sufferers in Ireland is lower than those in Britain and the US. This is because of the lack of suitable facilities in the country and therefore the reason for our cause.

Full details for the Kentucky Cycle

· Cycle has been organised by Cathal Beale
· Takes place on the 27th April 2008 from Churchill Downs to Keeneland
· The route is approximately 125km
· The journey goes through Mt. Washington, Taylorsville, Lawrenceburg and Versailles
· All roadworthy bikes will be accepted but racer or hybrid bikes are recommended
· Cyclists are expected to begin at 9am
· There will be a reception at Keeneland upon arrival

Full details for the Dublin to Wexford Cycle April 5th 2008

Many people have been emailing the gmail account looking for information on the charity cycle for Cystic Fibrosis from Dublin to Wexford so here are the details that you may find helpful -

• Cycle is on the 5th April 2008 from UCD to Castlebridge (approx 135km)
• Registration is between 8am and 8.45am with plans to be on the road at 9.00
• The route is via the N11 with a detour through Shankill to avoid the motorway
• There will be refreshment stops along the way where people will be collecting money
• Transport will be provided for you and your bike back to Dublin on Sunday
• Overnight accomodation is the responsibility of the individual
• Participants are expected to raise €200 or more in sponsorship
• All bikes that are seen to be roadworthy will be accepted though racer bikes or hybrid bikes are recommended
• All cyclist must wear a helmet or they will not be able to register
• People are asked to confirm their participation by Thursday 21st Feb
• There will be a reception in Culletons Pub, Castlebridge on arrival

Thank you

Irish Cycle Training

A training programme and safety statement have been published on our website ( http://www.cycleforcysticfibrosis.com/ ). With less than two weeks to April 5th, the programme might help those involved to know at what stage they should be, at this time. The safety statement is to inform you of who is involved in the running of things on the day and to assure you that you're in safe hands! There is also a list of Wexford accommodation on the website for those who live outside the County and need somewhere to stay on the night. Good luck to everyone who is in training!

Another charity cycle in aid of Cyctic Fibrosis is being organised - this time in China! A date has not yet been set however it is to take place sometime in May. Details of the precise date and route to follow. Well done to Darragh and those others who are planning this event.

Beat FM

John Morrissey did an interview yesterday (Mon 10th March) about the charity cycles for Cystic Fibrosis. Thank you to Beat FM for allowing us to broadcast these events to your listeners and a big congrats to John. You did us all proud!

Tshirts for Cycle

We currently have a tshirt order with Wexford Area Partnership for the charity cycle for Cystic Fibrosis. They will say on the front "Cycle for Cystic Fibrosis, UCD to Castlebridge, 2008" and on the back "In memory of Tracie Lawlor, www.cycleforcysticfibrosis.com" If anyone who is involved in either the Irish or the American cycle would like a tshirt they can email us as info@cycleforcysticfibrosis.com They are only €4 each

RTE Radio 1

Gerry Ryan and Joe Duffy have agreed to mention the charity cycles on their shows in the next week. Not only will this help us to raise more money but is invaluable advertising to raise awareness for Cystic Fibrosis. We are hoping that we will also get an interview as a follow up to Joseph Lawlor's (Tracie Lawlor's brother) interview with Joe Duffy a couple of weeks ago.