TWO local women are cycling from Ireland’s most northerly point to its most southerly tip for Marie Curie Cancer Care.
Natasha Ward, from Aughlisnafin, and Nuala Crilly, from Castlewellan, are taking on the 428 mile challenge in May.
The seven day expedition from Malin to Mizen will see the route broken up into daily chunks of up to 80.
Trainee PE teacher Natasha said she was hopeful of local support for a number of fundraising events in advance of May 4.
In Maginns bar in Castlewellan on Friday, February 22, there will be a fundraising pub quiz with raffle prizes and light refreshments on the night. This kicks off at 9pm.
Sporty Natasha said she and friend Nuala both loved outdoor activities so it wasn’t a difficult decision to take part, but that they were aware it was a major challenge.
Normally a fan of running and netball, Natasha has had to learn a new skill and put in many hours of hard training.
“I started on January 4 and every day I am training,” she said. “I can be taking Spinning classes at 7am and cycling 30 miles at night.”
No stranger to charity fundraisers, the Stranmillis College student has previously run the Belfast marathon, carried out voluntary work in Zambia, and is now volunteering in the Marie Curie day centre.
“Last year two members of my family had cancer and Marie Curie helped them so I know the important work it does,” she said.
Natasha and Nuala can also be supported with online donations at www.justgiving.com/NatashaandNuala