Paul Day – Director at www.Which-Network.co.uk is one of four amateur cyclists from South Yorkshire and Derbyshire who are taking on some of the best riders in the world in the first “Race Around Ireland” on the 16th September 2009.
The continuous, 1350 mile race around the Northern and Southern Irish coastline is the longest and most challenging endurance race outside of the USA and the distance has to be completed within 96 hours.The volunteer support crew for the four riders consists of a sports therapists and nutritionists from Chesterfield College, members of Derby Mountain Rescue Team and an apprentice bike mechanic from Sheffield.
The riders are raising money to fight leukaemia and fund blood cancer nurses through the Geoff Thomas Foundation. England International footballer, Geoff Thomas, survived Leukaemia after a bone marrow transplant and is now a renowned competitive cyclist.
The Team’s efforts to prepare for the race and to support charity is attracting the attention of a number of businesses in South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, as well as gaining the support of a number of local football teams. Sheffield United showcased the team during their home match on Saturday 29th August at Bramall Lane, much to the delight of team member Mark Jones who is the son of former England International, Sheffield United and Leeds United favourite, Mick Jones. During the showcasing Planet X bikes donated 4 new high spec carbon bikes helping the cyclist maximise their potential after months of arduous training in the Peak District.
The differing football allegiances of the Derbyshire and South Yorkshire based Team and Crew are being put aside for the duration of the race, though there is much debate about where they will first parade the “Race Around Ireland” trophy on their return.
The Team would love to hear from anyone wishing to support the Geoff Thomas Foundation, either through sponsorship or by providing assistance to the team in the form of funding, loans or gifts.
You can follow the teams progress on www.racearoundireland.co.uk they will also be followed by BBC Radio Sheffield and potentially BBC Regional Television.
