Hundreds of cyclists to take to roads in support of charity

Hundreds of cyclists to take to roads in support of charity

30 September 2015

THE third annual Strangford Sportive will be held on October 3.

The fundraising cycle for Christian Aid is for both experienced and amateur cyclists and will include three routes from 40km to 120km.

The routes will take in towns and villages across the district including Strangford, Killyleagh, Ardglass, Lisbane and Whiterock.

Organisers are expecting hundreds of cyclists for the starting point at Delamont Country Park and have warned there may be some minor traffic disruption, details of which will be available through the Christian Aid website.

Helen Newell, Christian Aid’s church and community officer, said local people should be aware there will be cyclists on the roads between 8am and 3pm. 

“Through this exciting event we will be raising funds for our development work in poor communities around the world.” she said.

“An example of one special project we are supporting is the Rural Transport Network in Kenya where motorbike ambulances are 

being used to save lives every day.  

“Volunteer community health workers travel to deliver mosquito nets, vital healthcare advice and medicines for people living with HIV.  They also ensure expecting and new mothers have everything they need for the best start for their baby.”

Helen said the Strangford Sportive would be a fun, rewarding day and urged anyone with a bike to sign up and take part.  

“This will likely be one of the last organised cycles of the season, so it is a great opportunity to get on your bike, have fun and, most of all, raise some valuable funds for the amazing work which Christian Aid is doing to tackle poverty around the world – all before the winter sets in,” she said.

There is a suggested minimum donation for cyclists taking part in the event of £20 per adult. 

This donation will help Christian Aid to tackle the root causes of poverty as well as its symptoms, helping local communities, regardless of race, faith or gender, to help themselves out of poverty.  

Registration is now possible online at www.christianaid.ie/cycling.  For more information contact Helen, email eventsireland@christian-aid.org ; or phone 028 9064 8133.