Fisherstown Cycle Challenge a success

Cyclists from near and far  converged on Fisherstown on a recent Sunday for the 3rd annual runnung of the Fisherstown cycle challenge in aid of the Emo/Rath senior citizens . 
There was a steady stream of cyclists signing on from 9am.
The feature of the event was Portlaoise's Jimmy Keenan who, prior to the start, sang a song dedicated to one of the cyclists who had a serious health issue, but is back to full health now and took part in the cycle.
The was a wonderful gesture by Jimmy Keenan.
First off was the 100k with over 60 riders participating over a course that brought them through Emo, Mountmellick and Clonaslee, across the cut where they had a stop for refreshments.
When they resumed on  to Mountrath, Ballyfin, Mountmellick and back to Fisherstown, conditions were dry and windy  until they hit the last 15km when there was an absolute downpour.
The 50km also started on time at 11.30am  with the cyclists travelling through Vicarstown, Stradbally, Athy, Monasterevin and back to Fisherstown.
Last off was the family 10k with a slight delay at the start, several families took part in this.
On returning to the finish all participants and friends were treated to tea and coffee and   sandwiches and cake in the Fishermans Thatched Inn.
Emo/Rath senior citizens committee  and the organisers would like to thank all those who took part  and the sponsors, also the safety  cars and motorbike marshals and the proprietors of the Fishermans Thatched Inn.
The event was a wonderful success and is provisionally fixed for the last Sunday in September 2017