Orangemen gear up for charity cycle trek across five counties

A GROUP of Orangemen from Co Tyrone are gearing up for a huge fundraising cycle next month.

Members of Aughintober cycling club are aiming to complete a 125-mile trek from Rossnowlagh, Co Donegal, to Kilkeel, Co Down — in just 10 hours.

The intrepid cycle — across five different counties — is being organised in aid of the Drew Nelson legacy project, announced by the Grand Lodge last year. The Orange Order’s grand secretary died in 2016.

Cycling club secretary Steven Cairns is looking forward to the June 16 trip. The worshipful master of Aughintober LOL 38 will participate in one of a number of relay teams taking part in the unique fundraiser.

“We are all keen on cycling and keeping fit, and the interest was such we decided to form a club through Cycle Ireland,” he said. “All members of the club are Orangemen, either members of Aughintober or from lodges in the surrounding area around Castlecaulfield.”

The cycle itinerary will include planned stops in Maguiresbridge, Ballygawley and Markethill before crossing the finish line in south Down.

To donate email steven.cairns02@ hotmail.com or contact Aughintober 38CC on Facebook. Members of Aughintober cycling club are preparing for the fundraising event in aid of the Drew Nelson legacy project and (left) the late Drew Nelson