Clionas show their Pedal Power for the Limerick to Lourdes 2022 cycle

Limerick to Lourdes 2022 – The committee will be taking part in the 700km charity cycle from Nantes to Lourdes to raise funds for Cliona’s foundation.

The first charity cycle fundraiser to Lourdes for Cliona’s was initially held in 2008

On Thursday, June 9, 20 cyclists, and eight of a backup team will begin their Limerick to Lourdes 2022 700km charity cycle from Nantes to Lourdes raising funds for Cliona’s and the Limerick Lourdes Invalid Fund.

Across 6 days of the Limerick to Lourdes 2022 cycle the team will pass through Nantes to La Roche Sur Yon, La Rochelle, La Royan, Bordeaux, Mont Du Marsan, Lembeye before crossing the finish line in Lourdes on Tuesday, June 14. This unique fundraiser was first held in 2008 and then in 2011, 2013 & 2016

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They were originally scheduled to take to the roads again in 2020 but Covid dictated otherwise & with recharged batteries and a fresh appetite to raise as much money as possible for both charities the cycling team are back and more focused than ever.

Committee member and cyclist Fergal Deegan is one of three that will have cycled in all of the 5 cycles when he arrives in Lourdes. “When we did this in 2008 we assumed it was going to be a one off, but such was the enjoyment, support and interest we now find ourselves getting ready for Limerick to Lourdes No 5.  It is a massive undertaking in terms of planning, training, fundraising and commitment from everyone involved. But the whole team has been fantastic and the funds raised so far from Mad Hatter’s Tea Party to climbing Croagh Patrick to table quizzes and support from local companies has been brilliant and will be revealed on our return.”

“It will be tough, but nothing compared to what the families this money will support are going through, and we will also have some great fun along the way too,” added Fergal.

“The beneficiary charities are very close to our heart,” said committee chairperson Finbarr Brougham. “Cliona visited Lourdes during her period of treatment and we are very aware of the financial pressure that families are under as they care for their sick child. In addition the Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes is an amazing trip and experience for everyone from the invalids to the youth helpers and our money will make sure they can continue to have this experience again in 2023.”

The cycle was launched recently by Fr. Frank O’Dea of Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage and Brendan Ring co-founder and CEO of Cliona’s. Brendan will also be part of the cycle team for the third time and for him it is more than just a cycle.

“This crew are just amazing for what they have done & continue to do, taking time off work, training and raising awareness and much needed funds. I am privileged to be part of the group that are also my friends. I cannot thank them enough and I will have Cliona’s with me for every km we cycle,” said Brendan.

The team would like to thank everyone that has supported their fundraising efforts over the past few years and also the many businesses that have made donations.

You can follow their progress on Facebook ‘Limerick Lourdes Charity Cycle’ and if you would like to support their fundraising efforts. 

To donate go HERE

For more stories on Limerick Lourdes Charity Cycle go HERE

For more information on Clionas Foundation go HERE