Local cycling star returns to launch charity cycle

HISTORY-MAKING cyclist Fiona Mangan, from Pallaskenry, has officially launched the Salesian Cycle Challenge for its sixth year running. 

Her impressive achievements include winning the All-Ireland Road Race and Time Trial in 2024, a historic feat as the first Irish woman to finish the prestigious Vuelta a España, and a commendable 65th place finish at the World Cycling Road Race.

A former Salesian Secondary College student, she made a special visit to the school recently to launch the event, which she has participated in previously. 

Mangan, who graduated in 2014, has taken the cycling world by storm, transitioning from a Gaelic football and triathlon background to become a professional cyclist.

After a successful stint with the American team, Cynisca, Mangan recently signed with the French team, Winspace. 

The Salesian Cycle Challenge has been organised by Salesian Secondary College in Pallaskenry and its Parents’ Association over the last 5 years.

The event is a fundraiser for local charities and has raised over €33,000 thanks to many enthusiastic participants and generous sponsors.

The cycle will take place on Sunday, April 6, with two routes to choose from; a 40km & 80km cycle through the heart of west Limerick.

Both cycles will start promptly at 9.30am, with registration open now online and an opportunity to register on the day before 9am. 

There will be a refreshment stop for both routes at the Thatch Bar in Askeaton.

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The organisers are looking forward to seeing regular participants as well as new cyclists on the road in aid of these worthy charities.

Funds raised from this year’s cycle will be donated to the Butterfly Club & Aoibhean’s Pink Tie, two organisations that are very important to the local school’s community.

The Butterfly Club, based in Rathkeale, provides respite on Saturdays to families of children with special needs, with vital social opportunities for these children and teenagers, with 51 local children attending this social club monthly.

Aoibheann’s Pink Tie supports families of children with cancer financially and emotionally. A feature of the charity is ‘Aoibheann’s Lighthouse’, a home from home for families requiring respite, a short walk from Crumlin Hospital.

All levels of cyclists are encouraged to take part, to enjoy a scenic cycle through the beautiful West Limerick countryside, with a few rolling hills to challenge the eager participants.

Registration costs €25 and sign up is available through Cycling Ireland Leisure event on cyclingireland.ie