Along the last winding 80 Km of road; Stranorlar, Carndonagh, Burt, Burnfoot, Muff and Malin.We were up and on the road early (if not quite as early as Rob's brother Ian and nephew Stephen, who had left Blessington at 5.30am in order to join us for the last leg, thanks lads) and the lads set off with all the enthusiasm of two young bucks fresh out of Templemore.
In no time at all they'd pulled into Muff for a short respite, spirits high, only 40K to go and all to play for. What they didn't realise at that stage was that those last 40K were mostly up some fairly serious Donegal hills, and I wasn't going to be the one to break it to them. So back in the saddles they went, and off like blazes.
The entourage went ahead to Malin, and waited. Eventually a yellow dot appeared at the foot of the mountain, with a blue one in hot pursuit. With a serious show of guts and determination they inched their way towards us, and soon we could see Robert's gorgeous hair blowing in the wind, and Phil's ever present smile, in spite of the fact that he was now downwind of one of the most notorious behinds in Irish amateur cycling history.
The last 500 metres must have been torture on the legs, but they drew side by side and kept it going, and they were there. 660KM later, they crossed the line together, to a massive round of applause from those assembled.
It was only when they were off the bikes it hit them, and me, what the whole thing had been all about. The feeling that a fitting tribute to two wonderful people had been achieved gave us such a feeling of pride, that I think it pressed out a tear from everyone.
So, finished. All that remained was to pack up the bikes, and make our way home. When we got there, a banquet had been laid out... The families were there to meet us, a kiss, a barbeque, a beer, a shower. Heaven.
What we'd like to know now is how much money has been raised for the charities... Early indications are between thirteen and fifteen thousand euro. That much will make a difference, well done lads, and thanks a million to those who've given cash, time, resources, cash, or cash. And if anyone has any spare cash, it's not too late!
Post Script
The local youths' football tournament, which takes place in Blessington every year, had it's final matches of the year on the Sunday after we got home. There's a food stall staffed by the ladies who organise the tournament, and they donated this year's proceeds, 369 euro, to the fund. Thanks to Connie, Annmarie, Ann and Geraldine.
It was a great day, as you can see from the pictures, and featured for the first time a game for pre-schoolers, which was the highlight of the day. This match is to be played every year, and will be "The Conor Curran Friendly Football Game" from next year.
There is sure to be another post here in the weeks to come, to let ye know how much you've helped us to raise, and to thank all those who have helped us to raise it (of whom there is a MASSIVE list under construction).
Until then,
Tom
No comments:
Post a Comment