20 cyclists have signed up to an enormously difficult challenge - embarking on a bike ride of over 400 miles from York to Cork in just 6 days. It will be physically challenging for all those involved as our aim is depart to from York on Monday, June 20, 2011 and arrive in Cork on Saturday, June 25, 2011. Our route will see us cross England and travel through North Wales to Holyhead where we will board a ferry to Dun Laoghaire. From there we will cycle to Cork before enjoying a well-earned pint to Murphy’s!... It is Cork after all!
The primary aim of this bike ride is to raise valuable funds for York Against Cancer in memory of my uncle Dr John Finbarr Walsh; though some members of the group also have their own personal motives for participating. John was first diagnosed with cancer in June 2007. After initially enjoying 10 months in remission, the cancer unfortunately returned in September 2008. John fought the disease valiantly, displaying courage and dignity throughout, even managing to give his daughter Abigail away at her wedding just 3 days before his death in March 2009.
Originally from York, John was revered by all who knew him both personally and professionally during his career as an anaesthetist. His work took him to Cork where he and his wife, Anne brought up their three children; Sarah, Abigail and David. John certainly enjoyed a good bike ride, hence the decision to complete what we believe to be a fitting tribute to this greatly missed, much loved man.
