Charity anticipates huge entry for unique motorway cycle event

Cyclists by law are not allowed on motorways but the unopened M3 will make an exception to this rule on 16th May next when a unique charity event will see hundreds of bicycles take to the tarmac to raise funds for Aisling Group International. The drug awareness charity held an initial launch of its 'M3 Cycle' last week, revealing that the event will include three distances catering for all levels of fitness: a 14km fun cycle, a 55km Boyne Cycle and the Paul Healion 100km cycle in memory of the very popular national champion cyclist, the late Paul Healion from Dunboyne. His widow, Anne, is supporting this cycle. "Aisling Group is delighted to host this event for all members of the communities it has served for over 20 years, including schools, sports organisations and families, locally and nationally. Ireland has one of the highest rates of drug/alcohol misuse in Europe and any funds raised goes directly to the charity's counselling, training and information service. "The motorway cycle has never been done before and will not be repeated. It will be the longest enclosed cycle in Ireland," said Aisling director, Marie Byrne. Local man Alan Heary, a well-known personal trainer, is assisting with the logistics of running the event. He is known for his involvement as race director in the 'Race Around Ireland' which takes place in September. Former Cycling Ireland president PJ Nolan from Navan is also bringing his vast experience to support the M3 Cycle from his many years of involvement in cycling. Ms Byrne said: "Running this event is only possible because of the commitment and support from a great team of the calibre of Alan Heary, PJ Nolan, Navan Road Club members and people who see the bigger picture of having such a special event as this, from which everyone benefits, by having services available in the field of drug/alcohol misuse prevention, training and education. Encouraging drug/alcohol-free driving and healthy lifestyle activities can prevent pain, suffering and death experienced by families." PJ Nolan added: "This is a very exciting and unique event which caters for everyone from families and leisure to elite cyclists. The M3 Cycle will pay tribute to well-known cyclist, the late Paul Healion, in the 100km event and I encourage people to join in this momentous occasion in his honour. It is wonderful to see the M3 motorway companies supporting a cycle that everyone can participate in and become aware of the work of Aisling Group International Charity." The joint venture companies involved in the cycle were also delighted to come on board. "When the Aisling Group approached Eurolink and asked to hold a sponsored cycle on the motorway before it officially opens, we were glad to agree," said Enda Tyrrell, construction and technical director of Eurolink Motorway Operations (M3) Ltd. "We're pleased that, even before it opens, the M3 will benefit a local and international charity which works extensively with young people, families, sport and organisations in drug/alcohol abuse prevention and recovery and promoting drug free policies. "Construction work on the motorway is nearing completion and this is an ideal way to raise people's awareness of this fact and also to raise monies for a worthy charity. It will also be the first and only time that cyclists will be allowed on the M3 as cyclists will not be permitted on the motorway after it officially opens, so anyone who wants to take part in this once-only event should sign up now at the event website at www.m3cycle.ie." Meath County Manager Tom Dowling, who was in attendance at last week's launch of the cycle, said he was delighted that Aisling Group International had been given the opportunity to launch its national drug awareness campaign by organising a cycle run on the M3 prior to its official opening. "This is a huge recognition of the wonderful work that the Aisling Group do and I would like to see people come out and support the group in its fundraising efforts on the day," he said. Registration for the event will be online at www.m3cycle.ie or contact (046) 907 4300 or (087) 672 8197. Intending participants are encouraged to register early. Entry fee is €15 per person or €30 per family (two adults, two children) for the 14km fun cycle; €38 per person for both the intermediate distance (55km) and the Paul Healion 100km distance.