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Challenge of a lifetime as 61-year-old looks to raise £10,000
By Elaine Sheridan
A father-of-four is gearing up for a 1,000 mile fundraising pilgrimage
— on a bicycle.
Patrick Kiernan and four of his pals have decided to take on the mammoth
challenge of cycling from Lands End in Cornwall to John O’Groats
in the Highlands of Scotland — all in the name of charity.
Pat — a native of Kilglass in Co. Roscommon but now living in Lancashire
— decided to raise money for his local St. Catherine’s Hospice
after being inspired by the work they do.
The 61-year-old’s father died from cancer over 40 years ago and
he wanted to be able to make a difference to the many people relying on
the hospice for support.
He said: “I thought it would be a good idea to give something to
St. Catherine’s as they received very little funding from the government.
“They make a difference to so many lives and should be rewarded
for it.”
Pat owns family-run Kiernan Construction in Preston and was persuaded
by his staff to take up the challenge.
His intention is to complete the trip in 10 days averaging around 90 miles
per day.
The task starts on April 8 and Pat has been in training for months.
He claims that the severest challenge to his fitness are the miles spent
cycling around the Lake District on a tandem bike with his wife June behind
him.
As part of his training he also completed a circular route of 500 miles
around Ireland which included Giants Causeway in Co. Antrim.
“I’ve been out cycling in every spare hour I get.
“Lately I’ve been doing 50 miles two or three times a week.
“It’s hard work but I thoroughly enjoy it.
“And it’s all in a good cause.
“The support has been fantastic from everyone,” Pat added.
The target is to raise at least £10,000 by the end of the cycle.
Pat is funding the entire journey himself meaning all monies raised go
direct to St. Catherine’s.
To donate online go to www.justgiving.com/patspedalpush
or see www.stcatherineshospice.co.uk
for further details. |
