The Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) has announced it is still accepting entries for this July’s IHF Kingspan Spanish Cycle Challenge.
An initial deadline of April 4th was put in place to allow those who felt they needed to undertake a recommended three month training programme to register. However, those still interested in taking part can now register closer to the departure date but terms and conditions do apply.
It’s a new dimension for the IHF Cycle Challenge in 2014 with the event being staged in Spain for the first time from July 20th– 26th. Participants will cycle from San Sebastian to Barcelona, a distance of about 550km- 700 km.
Cyclists have raised over €1.2 million for the IHF on nine separate cycles since 2009.
All the funds raised this year will support the vital Nurses for Night Care service which allows people with illnesses other than cancer to fulfil their wish of dying at home with dignity. Set up in 2006, it is offered free of charge to patients and their families.
Demand for the service continues to rise each year and this year it’s set to increase again by 17%. It means it will cost €450,000 to fund the service in 2014, compared to €385,000 last year.
Sharon Foley, CEO of the IHF, commented: “We need to be able to meet the demand and continue our support for this crucial service. The IHF receives no core State funding so we rely on the public’s support and generosity. I want to sincerely thank those who have already signed up but we do need more people to get involved. Just think, while you are undertaking a journey of your own, you will be helping someone back in Ireland on their final journey.”
Participants on the cycle challenge have a fundraising target of €2,950. People who register will pay a non-refundable deposit of €250. Cycling Safaris will be hand to help with devising a training programme if needs be. For more details and to register, log on to www.hospicefoundation.ie