Drogheda Cycling Group which lobbies for better facilities for cycling as a means of transport as well as for leisure purposes locally, has organised a host of fun activities to celebrate National Bike Week.
Bike Week, which runs from tomorrow, Saturday 13th to Sunday 21st May, is an annual celebration and promotion of the benefits of cycling with over 900 events taking place across the country, including family events, heritage cycles, maintenance workshops, and learn-to-cycle events.
“We have a strong cohort of regular cyclists but we want to grow our group” said Drogheda Cycling Group’s Linda Meehan.
“We are not a competitive group. It’s about enjoying cycling in our local area in a safe way. We have events to suit all ages and genders.
“We kick off with a bike maintenance workshop specifically for women. This takes place at Courtyard Coffee at Merchant’s Quay on Sunday May 14th at 10am. It’s aimed at beginners so it’s a great opportunity to brush up on basic bike skills.
“This is followed by a cycle to Newgrange at 11 where we can learn a little bit of our local history. This is one for adult cyclists only. It’s about 23km with some hills so cakes and pastries will be provided to refuel. Please bring your own drinks.
“On Thursday evening we have a community cycle around the town. Again it’s for adults only. It’s in Drogheda town so expect to deal with traffic and with hills. We’ll meet at St Peter’s on West Street at 7.30pm and finish around 9.00.
“Our final event is on Sunday May 21st. This is one for all ages. It will be shorter than the previous Sunday and away from traffic as much as possible so it’s safer for junior cyclists.
Hi-vis vests are required for all rides (We have some to spare if you don’t have your own). Helmets are also compulsory and lights are needed for the evening ride so please remember to take them with you.”
At the launch of National Bike Week, the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, said: “Bike week is going from strength to strength. It’s great to see so many activities taking place nationwide and I’d like to thank everybody at local level for their work in making Bike Week 2023 a reality.
“Cycling is important in terms of tackling climate change, but there’s more to it than that. Cycling also has a role to play in freeing up our cities and towns of traffic, making them more liveable for everyone as well as making it easier to get around.”
