Following on from all the fun of the festival we go straight into our next event, the annual Francie Doone cycle and family cycle day on Sunday June 3rd. This year we are supporting Chest Heart & Stroke NI and the main cycle gets underway at 9 a.m. (registration from 8 a.m.).
As in previous years the cycle follows a picturesque 70 mile route around the shore of Lough Neagh to Ballyronan, where the cyclists will enjoy refreshments, before returning via the same route to Glenavy.
For those wanting a more leisurely spin, there is the option of cycling to Clotworthy house in Antrim and returning to Glenavy, which is half the distance of the full cycle.
In the afternoon the younger members of the club get the chance to do their bit, by cycling round the perimeter of the pitch on the walking/cycle path. The family cycle starts from 1 p.m. everyone is encouraged to get involved as this event is part of our healthy club/wellbeing initiative.
As mentioned earlier we are supporting Chest Heart & Stroke NI and sponsor sheets will be given out to all teams at training this week. Please encourage the children and cyclists to raise as much as possible for this worthwhile charity and funds for the redevelopment of our lower pitch (NB the charity gets the majority of the money). Donations can also be made throughwww.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/glenavy-gac if you are participating in the event, a very effective way of raising money is to put the event on your Facebook page and let your friends know what you’re doing and requesting donations. For those who just want to participate in the cycle the cost will be £25, which is payable on the morning at registration.
Every year the cycle is good fun and a great social occasion. Everyone taking part is entitled to a free BBQ and stories of heroics and misfortunes are exchanged (as well as bragging rights in some groups!). This is all complimented by good music and hopefully good weather. So come and join us and have a happy, healthy day with the family!
The great Francie Doone R.I.P.