VIVA Wheelers
The VIVA Wheelers are a group of cyclists of all abilities who have raised almost €165,000 for VIVA's projects worldwide since 2005. The venture was inspired by Pat Murphy, a vet in Co Galway, who having taken part in fundraising cycles for many charities wanted to do the same for VIVA. Our first cycle challenges were overseas with fundraising cycles in Vietnam (2005), Morocco (2007) raising over €120,000 for our overseas projects. In 2009, we started our annual one day event, a 100km cycle in some of Ireland’s most scenic locations. The “Burren 100” was a great success with 50 cyclists raising €19,000 and enjoying a gloriously sunny day. We moved to Bantry in 2010 and in addition to the 100km route a 130km option was added for the more enthusiastic. Our 2011 event moved to Westport to explore the unrivalled scenery of south Mayo. In addition, an 18km hike on the Great Western Greenway (which follows the old Newport to Mulranny railway) added to the options for participants. The Westport event was our biggest success to date, raising over €25,000.
Our events are organised by a professional cycle tours company (Irish Cycling Safaris) and with many participants returning year after year, this is an ideal opportunity to take up a new hobby, make new friends and see Ireland as it should be seen – from the saddle of a bike!
A slideshow of photos from the “Westport Bike ‘n Hike” taken by our official photographer, Peter Kelly, can be viewed here
There are also more photos on our Facebook page uploaded by other participants
For regular updates, why not visit our Facebook page here
To join our mailing list or to register for the “Westport Bike ‘n Hike” contact Mike Burke on 086 – 2568357 or mike@viva.ie
