Pedal for Paddy – Keep ‘er Lit!

The Wheels and Jigs Cycle is embarking on another incredible journey, cycling from Enniskillen to the Willie Clancy Summer School and Traditional Irish Music Festival in Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, arriving on Monday 6th July.

This year's journey is a very special one.

Last year, our musical family was heartbroken by the passing of our dear friend and talented young musician, Paddy Rooney from Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim.

Paddy was an exceptionally gifted musician on the banjo, mandolin, and drums. Alongside his brother Joe and sister Annie, he shared a musical bond that was truly special. Music wasn't simply something the Rooney family did, it was who they were. Supported every step of the way by their parents, Michael and Mairéad, the family spent years travelling the roads of Ireland attending sessions, Fleadhanna, festivals, and competitions, creating memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Like many young musicians, Paddy's musical journey began on the tin whistle with Lorraine Sweeney before progressing to banjo lessons with Ciarán Owens and drum lessons with John McCann through TradAcad. It wasn't long before he became a familiar face in the bands, groups, and sessions of Dromore CCÉ under the guidance of Maggie Maguire.

From a young age, Paddy immersed himself in traditional music, earning admiration and respect from musicians far beyond his years. Yet those who knew him best will remember much more than his remarkable talent. Paddy carried an ever-present smile, a quick wit, and a warmth that made everyone feel welcome. He was the heart and soul of the craic, and through music he made lifelong friends in every corner of Ireland.

Paddy was also a familiar face at the Willie Clancy Summer Festival, a place he loved and looked forward to visiting every year. He played at sessions and formed friendships that would last a lifetime.

In fact, the banjo Paddy played was purchased in Miltown Malbay during one of those Willie Clancy trips. The search for the perfect banjo became something of an adventure, with every banjo player in sight being called upon to offer an opinion. Even Tomás Quinn had to give it the seal of approval before Paddy was satisfied. When Paddy heard that Elaine Reilly liked the tone of the banjo, the deal was done! By the end of the day, Paddy had found the perfect banjo, and although Michael may have left Miltown Malbay with a lighter wallet, it was worth every penny.

Miltown Malbay holds countless happy memories for Paddy and the Rooney family, making it a particularly fitting destination for this year's cycle.

Truth be told, Paddy always thought the Wheels and Jigs Cycle was a bit daft. He never quite understood why anyone would choose to cycle hundreds of miles to Clare when there were much easier ways to get there! He was never short of a bit of slagging and always had a comment ready for those setting off on the journey.

We can only imagine what he'd be saying about this year's adventure.

But we know he'd be smiling at the thought of us heading down the road once again, and we know he'll be with us in spirit for every mile.

This year, we ride for Paddy.

The cycle will be led by Paddy's teachers and friends, Ciarán Owens, John McCann and Maggie Maguire.

We are also delighted that Paddy’s sister, Annie, and brother, Joe Rooney, will join the journey after Joe competes at the Connacht Fleadh—because, as Paddy would undoubtedly remind us, the music always comes first.

Joining them on the road will be members of The Tumbling Paddies, The Knockmore Céilí Band, The Whistlin' Donkeys, as well as musicians, friends, and family from across Ireland, all united by friendship, music, and a desire to honour Paddy's memory.

As we make our way towards the world-renowned Willie Clancy Summer School, we will remember a young man who lived and breathed traditional music, whose friendship touched so many lives, and whose legacy continues in every tune played, every session shared, and every mile travelled.

As part of this year's Pedal for Paddy – Keep ‘er Lit! cycle, we will be raising funds in memory of Paddy for two organisations that provided outstanding care, support, and kindness to Paddy and the Rooney family throughout their journey: SHOUT Cancer Care Sligo and St. John's Ward, Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin.

Through this cycle, we hope to honour Paddy's memory while giving something back to the people and services who supported him and his family when it mattered most.