Tour de Ballyfinnane set to return
CYCLISTS of all abilities are being invited now to enter an event which has proven itself in terms of enjoyment and participation levels over the past five years.
Following the resounding success of previous year’s cycles, the Tour de Ballyfinnane Cycle is back on the calendar of events on Saturday, April 6, at 10am.
This is the sixth year of the cycle, which is organised by the parents of the children at Ballyfinnane National School with the support of the school board, the local community and local businesses.
“All funds raised are in aid of Scoil Naomh Cárthach in Ballyfinnane, which is a two-teacher, co-educational, rural Catholic school,” said organising committee member, Seán Lally.
The school is situated in Kiltallagh Parish, between Farranfore and Castlemaine, and it was built in 1965. It has had a long association with traditional Irish music, singing, dancing, and football.
The funds raised are invested in facilities and activities for the children attending the school.
These include: reading books; computing and science equipment; sports coaching; music coaches and special-needs resources.
“This year, with the help of Clár funding, we are developing a playground, which will be open to the public outside of the school play times,” said Mr Lally.
“This year’s cycle was launched by Brendan Griffin TD and Junior Minister for Sport at Divanes Castleisland.
“We are delighted to have this long-established local business as our host sponsor. Divanes are the Main Volkswagen dealer for Kerry since 1954.
“The Castleisland-based family business has been providing an exceptional service for almost seven decades.
“We want to take this opportunity to thank the community, local businesses and not least the cyclists who take part the event.
“We are doing all we can to ensure the event is enjoyable and run to a high standard again this year, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Ballyfinnane on April 6.
“We have two routes on offer, 70km and 45km, both commencing from Ballyfinnane Community Hall.
“Refreshments will be provided along the route and again at the finish, with the now-infa- mous complementary BBQ and entertainment at The Shanty Bar, Ballyfinnane.
“Participants can pre-register on our website address, or on the day from 8am.
“All proceeds will go to Ballyfinnane National School,” Mr Lally concluded.
Route one is 70km, at €25 entry. This route takes you west to Castlemaine, Inch, Annascaul, Gleann na nGealt, Camp, Tonevane, Caherleaheen, Farmer’s Bridge and over the final climb of the day at Garraun on the return to Ballyfinnane.
Route two is 45km, costing €20. It takes you east to Currans, Castleisland, Ballymacelligott, Tralee, and back to Ballyfinnane via the Killarney Road and Gortatlea.
For further details please log on to www.tdb.ie or check out its Facebook page: Ballyfinnane Cycle.