'Into the East" bike-ride challenge

Dear Sir - Having just joined Co-operation Ireland as its chief executive in January 2009 as the charity started its 30th year, I expected a new and challenging career as head of the leading cross-border peace-building charity. The challenges I anticipated included ensuring Co-operation Ireland"s continued relevance in the new era of bedding down the peace process and also funding the charity"s work in the midst of a serious economic downturn. This year"s 'Into the East" bike ride takes place over the weekend of 27th/28th June with two days of cycling: day one north from Dundalk through South Armagh, the Mournes along Carlingford Lough and back to Dundalk along the side of the Cooleys, 94 miles in total. Day two is a mere snip at 62 miles along the coast from Dundalk through Termonfeckin and Clogherhead along the River Boyne to the Battle of the Boyne sight before climbing up through Slane and Collon back to Dundalk. In typical chief executive style, my challenge becomes everyone"s challenge so I take this opportunity to challenge your readers to join me, help support the charity"s work and join in Co-operation Ireland"s 30th birthday celebrations. Yours, Peter Sheridan, Chief Executive, Co-operation Ireland.