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+--- Thread: Ed Byrne Promises Laughs On Cycle Challenge (/Thread-Ed-Byrne-Promises-Laughs-On-Cycle-Challenge)
Ed Byrne Promises Laughs On Cycle Challenge - Newsroom - 08-04-2014
Comedian Ed Byrne is promising cyclists willing to go from Couch to Connacht a good laugh when they arrive in aid of the national suicide prevention and bereavement charity Console.
The Dublin-born funnyman is seeking the last few volunteers to sign up for the 200km Console East-West Cycle from Celbridge to Galway.
Wise-cracking Ed, who regularly appears on TV shows such as Mock the Week, 8 out of 10 Cats and Have I got News For You, has vowed to put on a cracking night's entertainment for Console's cyclists when they reach their destination at Galway's Clayton Hotel.
The one-day event is designed for every category from beginners to serious cyclists – with enjoyment the key.
“Console's East West Cycle is about having fun as well as raising funds so we are delighted to have Ed on board,†said Console founder and CEO Paul Kelly.
The charity has just 30 places left and they are asking would-be cyclists sign up now so they can get in shape before setting off from Celbridge on June 7.
Top ultra-distance cycling champion Ricky Geoghegan has designed a programme to get those new to cycling up to speed in an eight-week period.
“Ricky has come up with a brilliant 'Couch to Connacht' training schedule that will enable at complete novices to get on their bikes and cycle to Galway,†said Paul.
The route along the old Dublin to Galway road includes rest stops in Kinnegad, Moate, Ballinasloe and Loughrea where cyclists will be met by local fundraisers with refreshments.
After their hard work, Console cyclists will enjoy an overnight stay in Galway's Clayton Hotel where Ed and some very special guests will provide the entertainment.
The charity has set a fundraising target of €250 per cyclist plus a registration fee of €50 and people can register at console.ie
Energy provider Airtricity, Applegreen and Cuisine de France are among the leading Irish businesses sponsoring the Console East-West Cycle.
“Thanks to our sponsors we can guarantee that every single cent raised will go to Console services ensuring they are free and readily accessible, so people in need can get help when they need it most,†said Paul Kelly.
Nationwide professional suicide prevention and bereavement charity Console offers counselling services and 24-hour helpline support to people in crisis and those bereaved by suicide (Freephone 1800 247 247).
The charity has full-time counselling centres in Limerick Cork, Dublin, Wexford, Galway, Kerry and Mayo. It also offers services in Kildare and Athlone and has recently opened a service in London.
Counselling, advice and general support is available for any individual, couples, groups, families or children who have been affected by suicide.