| Calling all bikers! |
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| Thursday, 28 August 2008 | |
 A GROUP of Northside bikers are expecting this year’s Annual Across Ireland Motorcycle Run to be the biggest ever with over 1,000 participants taking part. In a bid to bring the total amount of funds raised since the event began in 1999 to over e1 million, the group is appealing to riders across North Dublin to sign up. Motorcycling enthusiast Nicky Carvin, from Swords, started the Across Ireland run from Dublin to Galway almost 10-years-ago in a bid to raise much-needed funds for Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. “I had a chance visit to the hospital when a friend’s newborn baby was in the intensive care unit there,” Nicky told Northside People. “I got talking to the staff and was shocked to find out how badly they were in need of equipment. “There were just three incubators there at the time. “I spoke to the staff about purchasing the equipment and putting it to use immediately - without any admin or politics getting in the way.” Nicky said he was inspired by one of his great heroes, Joey Dunlop, five times world champion. “He used to fill a van with medical supplies and drive all across Europe helping kids,” he stated. Nicky stressed that the main difference between his group and a lot of other charities is that they ensure all the money goes straight to those in need without taking personal expenses or dealing with unnecessary administration fees. “Every rider who comes with us, which was over 600 last year, funds their own expenses including fuel, food and accommodation, as well as collecting money for the charity,” he said. “We have sponsors who give us things like free shirts and we give away raffle prizes throughout the event but all the money goes to the cause.” This year the money will go to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. “We hope to beat the e143,000 raised last year to bring the total since we started to over e1 million,” added Nicky. “For those of you who have supported this very enjoyable event over the past number of years we look forward to your continued support again this year. “All newcomers are very welcome to join in the fun and participate in this very successful and worthy cause.” Gerry Davern, from Donaghmede, has been a motorcycling enthusiast all his life and would like to encourage as many locals as possible to take part. This year is particularly important for Gerry as his son, Mark, died from a brain tumour shortly after last year’s run. Mark, like his father, was a motorcycling enthusiast. “I’ve been riding motorbikes of all sorts since I was a teenager,” Gerry told Northside People. “I got a Honda 50 when I was 16, and I’m 51 now and I still haven’t stopped. “I really think this year’s event could be the biggest ever with a bit of luck; it’s been getting bigger every year. “It’s a way for old bikers like myself and even new ones to give something back to society.” According to Gerry, this year’s event is being filmed and there will be a Garda escort for the entire journey. “I can think of about 40 riders from this area alone taking part,” he added. As a result of last year’s success, the Make-A-Wish Foundation was able to grant an incredible 19 wishes and employ a new member of staff. Susan O’Dwyer of Make-a-Wish said they were delighted to be associated with the Annual Across Ireland Motorcycle Run. “Last year’s event was a truly spectacular and magical experience,” stated Ms O’Dwyer. “This has become a key fundraising event in our calendar. “We are thrilled to be involved and we look forward to working with the group again in the future.” The run takes place on Saturday and Sunday, August 30 and 31, and everyone is welcome to participate. Anyone wishing to take part in the Across Ireland run can register by contacting 087-7620147 or visit www.annualacrossireland.com. Alternatively, riders can sign up on the day between 10am and 12.30pm outside the Mansion House. |
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North Dublin Publications, 80-83 Omni Park, Santry, Dublin 9. Phone 8621611 | Fax 8621625/6
Developed by Kevin Flynn