Annual Christmas Cracker Cycle returns in aid of Marymount

THE annual Christmas Cracker Cycle in aid of Marymount University Hospice is set to return this year and will take place on Saturday, December 2.

Now in its 14th year, the cycle provides a great day out while also raising vital funds for Marymount.

This year sees the two usual routes for participants to choose from, both starting and finishing at Marymount. The plan is for a mass start at 10am, with gardaí providing assistance to get cyclists safely around the Bandon Road Roundabout and up the Liberties Hill past Dunnes.

The ‘Mini Cracker’ route of 60km will turn left just before Innishannon, then Dunderrow, Kinsale, Halfway, and back to Marymount.

The ‘Maxi Cracker’ route of 80km will go through Innishannon, Bandon, Kilbrittain, Ballinspittle, Kinsale, Halfway and back to Marymount.

Former double Rowing World Champion Sanita Puspure launched the event at Marymount recently, joined by long-time Marymount supporter 93-year-old Jack Callanan, committee chairman Paul Sheridan, and Marymount head of finance Liam Kerins.

Mr Callanan, a neighbour of Sanita’s, is the inspiration behind the event and has been involved in its organisation from the outset.

There will be a prize for the ‘Best Club’ and ‘Best Costume’, as well as spot prizes on December 2.

Refreshments will be provided to cyclists at the start and end of the cycle in Marymount.

There is no event registration fee, as participants are instead asked to make a voluntary donation.

Marymount needs to raise over €3m each year in order to continue to offer the types of vital services it provides for so many patients, and annual events such as this contribute greatly to the cause. It is hoped that there will be a record turnout this year.

To sign up for this year’s cycle, visit https://tinyurl.com/5e4n9k8s.