Watch: Munster rugby legends help launch Saddle Up for Down Syndrome fundraiser

DOWN Syndrome Cork’s Field of Dreams hosted Munster rugby stars Stephen Archer and Simon Zebo to launch its Saddle Up for Down Syndrome fundraising cycle, in honour of World Down Syndrome Day, which was yesterday.

The annual 100km cycle, which starts from the Field of Dreams centre in Curraheen, will take place on June 9, with shorter routes of 50km and 21km also available to participants.

This year marks the fourth edition of the crucial fundraising event, which has become a fixture in the Munster cycling calendar. Down Syndrome Cork announced Dansko Foods Ltd as this year’s title sponsor of the event.

Last year’s fundraiser saw more than 250 people take part in the cycle, which was led out by cycling legend Seán Kelly, accompanied by a large squad of cyclists from local clubs, including Bandon Cycling Club, which won the Best Team award on the day.

This year’s 100km cycle route traverses some of the most beautiful roads and villages in West Cork and takes in Kinsale, the Old Head, and many of the surrounding towns in the area.

Participants can also opt to do a shorter 50km route, as well as the newly introduced family-friendly 21km route, which is focused on getting families out together with a single price per family unit.

Supporters on the day are asked to wear their brightest and oddest socks as a way of celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion. This is a light-hearted and symbolic gesture that serves as a reminder that being different is something to be proud of.

World Down Syndrome Day, an official United Nations awareness day, is celebrated each year on the March 21 as recognition of the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome.

Further information on how to register for the event, or how to donate to Field of Dreams, can be found via the Cork Down Syndrome Facebook page or by searching “Field of Dreams Cycle” on Eventbrite.ie