315 events planned for Bike Week across Cork

There are over 315 events planned across the city and county for this year’s Bike Week Cork, which begins on Saturday.

Launching the annual event the Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Joe Carroll, said it was fantastic to see so many free and fun events organised to promote cycling.

“Many of the events have been organised to appeal to younger generations and to highlight the benefits of cycling as a mode of transport,” he said.

“Given the number of events organised, there is something for everybody and I would encourage all residents of Cork county to get out and give cycling a try this Bike Week.”

James Kirby, sports development officer with Cork Sports Partnership, said Bike Week Cork had continuously grown over the years through a very successful partnership between Cork Sports Partnership, Cork County Council, Cork City Council, and multiple other stakeholders.

“With over 18,000 people of all ages and abilities taking part last year we are hoping to go bigger and better in 2025,’ he said.

Moira Murrell, chief executive of Cork County Council, said the rollout of the Safe Routes to School Schemes had been a significant driver behind the increase in cycling among younger generations.

“Through positive engagement with An Taisce, the National Transport Authority, as well as local stakeholders, Cork County Council has delivered nine Safe Routes to Schools to date.

“The council is working with another 17 schools, which will see further schemes delivered this summer, including in Skibbereen and Macroom.”

Cork County Council has organised cycling challenges in several schools including the primary schools in Skibbereen who are already getting ready for the May Challenge and a ‘try a bike’ event for Carrigtwohill Business & Technology Park will once again work with Mary Geary’s Childcare in Carrigtwohill to build on last year’s successful cycle to school event.

The week-long festival takes place from Saturday, May 10, to Sunday, May 18. For details, see www.corkbikeweek.ie.