Dublin Man Attempts to Raise Ataxia Awareness Through Cycling Event

A NORTHSIDE man who suffers from an incurable condition will attempt to raise awareness of it through a fundraising event this weekend.

In January 2013, Barry Rice (34), from Ayrfield, was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA), a neuromuscular disease that causes progressive damage to the nervous system resulting in the loss of muscle control.

Cycle Ataxia 2015, a charity leisure cycle in aid of Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Ireland (FARA) and Ataxia Ireland, will take place from Ashbourne this Saturday, June 20.

Following a hugely successful inaugural event last summer, €15,000 was raised for ataxia related charities. Funds raised will primarily go towards research into finding a cure or treatment for FA, as well as providing assistance for those living with a genetic ataxia.

Speciality pharmaceutical company, Horizon Pharma, has provided €5,000 in sponsorship for the event.

The company, which has its global headquarters in Dublin, is involved in clinical studies regarding possible treatments for FA.

Cycle Ataxia participants will have three cycle routes to choose from, with distances ranging from 13km to 100km to

suit the cyclists’ skill and fitness levels.

All routes will be aided by support and guidance vehicles, and the longer routes will feature designated rest stations.

The 38k and 100k routes will get underway at 9.30am, and the 13k route will start at 10.30am. The entry fee to take part is €30 for all routes.

Sponsorship is not mandatory but participants are encouraged to try to raise what they can to support the cause.

Mr Rice, who is organising the event in conjunction with Ratoath Wheelers, is expecting over 500 cyclists to take part.

“We’ve designed this event to suit everybody from novice, leisure cyclists, looking for a fun day out to the hardened pros who will think nothing of a 100km ride on a weekend,” he said.

“We will have something for everybody and we’re looking forward to a great turnout.”

For further information on the event, visit www.Cycle Ataxia.ie or email [email protected]

Source.