Rose of Tralee Cycle Against Suicide “Spin-Off”

THE conditions weren’t exactly ideal for a cycle round north Kerry but on Saturday hundreds of cyclists ignored the inclement conditions to do their bit for a great cause. The Rose of Tralee Cycle Against Suicide ‘Spin Off ’ was one of the biggest additions to this year’s festival line up and it proved to be a massive success.

Spin Off events are locally organised cycles that take place once a month – in venues across the country – after the main 14 day Cycle Against Suicide draws to a close.

Given that the Cycle Against Suicide was founded by Tralee based Entrepreneur Jim Breen, it was fitting that one of the Spin Offs would take place in the capital of The Kingdom, and so it came to pass.

The Tralee Spin Off was supported by Aspen Grove and the company headed up by Sean Ryan handed over its premises on the Castelmaine Road for use as Spin Off HQ .

Hundreds of Cyclists gathered at the Aspen Grove Building where they donned the Cycle Against Suicide’s distinctive Orange jerseys and , just after 2pm, set off on a 50 kilometre cycle that took them from Tralee past Banna beach and onwards to Ballyheige.

The group then looped back into Tralee, in very blustery and wet conditions, where the Peloton made its way through the town centre, to a rapturous reception, ahead of Saturday night’s Rose Parade.

“We were thrilled, and privileged, to participate in the Rose Parade this year,” said Jim Breen.

“Thousands of spectators were in Tralee for the Rose Parade and concluding our SpinOff by cycling through the town and leading in the parade was a phenomenal opportunity to challenge stigma, positively change mind-set around mental health, and promote help-seeking behaviour by signposting those in need to where help is available,” Mr Breen said.

“The community of Tralee has always been remarkably supportive of the Movement, taking our message to their hearts, and making it their own. Our local partners and sponsors have contributed immeasurably to our work, both locally and nationally, and we continue to be hugely grateful for their ongoing support,” Jim Breen said.

Rose of Tralee General Manager also voiced his support for the Cycle Against Suicide and the positive message it promotes.

“The message championed by Cycle Against Suicide is relevant to everyone but especially to the peers of our Roses, Rose Escorts and indeed, many of the people who attend Rose of Tralee events worldwide.

“We are delighted to be associated with the Spin Off,” he said.

Cyclists sign in for the Rose of Tralee Cycle Against Suicide “Spin-Off”. Pic: Eye Focus

Cycle Against Suicide took to the road during the Rose of Tralee Festival . This group preparing to take on the challenge. Photo By Domnick Walsh

Carly Horan Tralee , Jim Breen (Cycle Against Suicide) Blondie Horan Tralee and Sean Ryan of Aspengrove taking part in the Cycle Against Suicide. Pic: Eye Focus

Cycle Against Suicide took to the road during the Rose of Tralee Festival. Pictured here were Jerry Driver and Mary Jones from Kerry. Photo By Domnick Walsh

Monaghan Rose Pamela Allen and the Wicklow Rose Jane Harrison pictured with Jim Breen from Tralee at the “Spin-Off”.