Sunday 17 April 2011
Downpatrick Third World Group Annual Charity Cycle Tour

The biggest turn out to date at the Downpatrick Third World Charity Cycle Tour which took place on Sunday 17 April 2011 from the Downpatrick Cricket Club.  The warm, spring like conditions helped to attract almost 170 riders for the main 60 mile route which went to Castlewellan, Bryansford, Newcastle, Dundrum and then onto Clough for the tea stop.  Once refueled the riders headed for Tyrella, Killough, Ardglass and Strangford before returning to the cricket club were the hard working volunteers had put on a great spread of sandwiches and tray bakes.  The food alone keeps attracting a large number of regular attenders year on year.  There were riders from over a dozen local clubs with Dromara Cycling Club the biggest presence with over 50 of its members out enjoying the day.

Sign on opened around 9 am with the car park already full as a film crew had got in first to occupy a large section.  Sadly the film crew was not there to cover this event!  The riders were lined up at the gate to receive instructions from one of the organisers.  After the route briefing the riders were asked to observe a minute silence for two local riders who were killed this week while cycling, Michael Caulfield in Belfast and Gareth Crockett in Wales.  Once observed the mass of riders emerged from the car park, turned right and headed through Downpatrick town centre.  The route was fully escorted with lead cars and motorcycle outriders both from the PSNI and from local supporters of the event.  Their organisation and dedication was much talked about when the riders returned.  

As part of the fund raising event the organisers had again advertised the 10 mile "family tour" which left just after the main bunch but instead of heading through Downpatrick they turned up the carriageway and headed for Crossgar making use of the footpath which runs the entire length.  There were 18 riders enjoying this route which included six aged 8 or younger.  The 5 mile trip to Crossgar was tiring for the young legs but they all managed to make it to the village where there were refreshments of tea, coffee, juice, bananas and, happily for the young ones, chocolate!

The money raised from the event goes towards projects helping children in Colombia.  The organisers which to thank all those riders for supporting this event which has grown from such humble beginnings over 20 years ago.



Report and photographs by Martin Grimley