The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Ballyfinnane cycle celebrates fifth birthday in style
NOW into its fifth year, the annual ‘Tour De Ballyfinnane’ cycle shows no signs of slowing down as it reaches the half-decade mark.
With cyclist numbers consistently reaching the 300 mark, it is no wonder then that it’s regarded as one of the most popular events in the Kerry sporting calendar.
It is cycled in aid of the wonderful staff and pupils in Ballyfinnane National School, with organiser Seán Lally telling The Kerryman that all money raised from the cycle will go towards helping pupils in the school who have special requirements for their education.
“We have a number of children in the school who would have specific needs. We have installed special teaching equpment in the school this year to help suit these children and their education,” said Seán, speaking to The Kerryman on Monday.
“We will also be using some of the money to help support sports in the school and other activities outside of the normal school curriculum,” he continued.
There were two routes available to cyclists on the day of 70km and 45km apiece, both of which took cyclists through the length and breadth of Kerry.
The 70km route saw cyclists leaving Ballyfinnane and heading onto Castlemaine, before travelling to Inch, Annascaul, Camp, Blennerville, Tonevane and Farmers Bridge, before they eventually arrived back into Ballyfinnane.
For those looking or a slightly easier day out, the 45km route offered aneasier prospect; this route saw cyclists going from Ballyfinnane to Currans, to Castleisland, back to the Tralee bypass, out the Killarney road to Ballygarry House Hotel, out to the John Mitchels GAA club before making the turn back to Ballyfinnane again.
There were plenty of refreshments available back in the school after the cycle and Seán says that, if all goes to plan again next year, they’ll be lining up again for the sixth year in 2019.