The return journey from Croke Park for many Mayo supporters from Achill can be a long and tiring journey even at the best of times, so spare a thought for Achill natives who later this month will cycle the 300km.

Fifteen cyclists will pedal from Croke Park to Davitt Park in Achill to raise funds for Achill GAA and Cancer Care West on Saturday, April 15. They hope to reach Achill GAA’s home ground a day later, on April 16, after stopping in Ballaghaderreen for the night. For the last number of weeks, volunteers have been training for the challenge. The cyclists have been meeting up every Sunday morning at Davitt Park and cycling towards Castlebar and Westport before returning to Achill.

One of the volunteers, Marty Mangan from Dooega, told The Mayo News that although he had to be coerced into taking part initially, he is now looking forward to the event.

“Up to this I have never done any cycling, but I am enjoying the training and I am looking forward to the challenge. I played football for Achill, and now I would like to give something back.… The money raised will be going towards Bord na n-Óg which is very important for the future of the club and the community,” he said.

Mangan is enjoying the social aspect of the challenge too. “The social side of the training is great, because it is not a competitive race … we get to enjoy each other’s company,” he said, adding that it has also given him the chance to enjoy Mayo’s spectacular countryside.

Each cyclists hopes to raise €300 each. Sponsorship cards are available throughout Achill Island for anybody who wishes to support the worthy causes.