Liam Kerins, Marymount Head of Finance, Jack Callahan, Friends of Marymount, Sanita Puspure, Twice world rowing champion and three time Olympian and Paul Sheridan. Image: Gerard McCarthy

In its 14th year, the annual Christmas Cracker Cycle in aid of Marymount University Hospice is gearing up for a spectacular event. Scheduled for Saturday, December 2, this cherished cycling tradition is not only a great day out for participants but also a vital fundraiser for Marymount.

This event, firmly embedded in the heart of the Cork cycling community, offers two well-loved routes for participants, with both beginning and concluding at Marymount. The day starts with a mass launch at 10:00 am, with the invaluable assistance of Gardai, ensuring the safe passage of cyclists around the Bandon Road Roundabout and up the challenging Liberties hill past Dunnes.

Cyclists have a choice between the ‘Mini Cracker’ route, covering 60km and taking them through Innishannon, Dunderrow, Kinsale, Halfway, and back to Marymount, and the ‘Maxi Cracker’ route spanning 80km, journeying through Innishannon, Bandon, Kilbrittain, Ballinspittle, Kinsale, Halfway, and returning to Marymount.

The event was officially launched on October 10th at Marymount, and it was graced by the presence of former double Rowing World Champion Sanita Puspure. She was joined by long-time Marymount supporter Jack Callanan, who, at ninety years old, is an inspiration and a founding member of the event’s organization. Paul Sheridan, Committee Chair, and Marymount’s Head of Finance, Liam Kerins, were also part of this significant launch.

The Christmas Cracker Cycle promises a day of excitement with prizes for the ‘Best Club’ and ‘Best Costume,’ along with spot prizes to keep the atmosphere festive. Cyclists can look forward to refreshments both at the start and end of the cycle in Marymount.

Adding a touch of holiday cheer, participants are encouraged to dress in festive attire and decorate their bikes, enhancing the joy of the season.

Safety remains a top priority, with routes clearly signposted and support from motorcycle marshals and backup support vehicles throughout the event.

In the true spirit of community, there is no event registration fee. Instead, participants are invited to make a voluntary donation, reflecting Marymount’s ethos of inclusivity and collective support.

This event plays a significant role in Marymount’s efforts to raise over €3.0 million each year, necessary to continue its vital services. Events like the Christmas Cracker Cycle contribute immensely to this cause, and the organizers are hoping for a record turnout this year.

Cycling clubs and individual cyclists in Cork are urged to make this their weekend spin for the first weekend in December. Let’s come together to support Marymount, celebrate the season, and make a meaningful impact in our community.

Participants are advised to secure their spot by registering online at Eventbrite under “Christmas Cracker Cycle 2023.”