DistantNews
Events held to mark Bike Week across the country
🇮🇪 Ireland /Culture & Society

Events held to mark Bike Week across the country

From RTÉ News · (2h ago) English Positive tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Bike Week events are taking place across Ireland until May 17th, aiming to support cyclists and encourage new participants.
  • Coordinated by the National Transport Authority, local authorities are organizing various events, including a flagship event in Dublin's Eamonn Ceannt Park.
  • Activities range from BMX stunt shows and bike repairs to cycling safety classes and parades, with many events being free to attend.

Bike Week has officially rolled into Ireland, igniting a nationwide celebration of cycling that promises to pedal its way through every county until May 17th. This annual initiative, spearheaded by the National Transport Authority and brought to life by local authorities, serves a dual purpose: to champion existing cyclists and to inspire a new generation to embrace the two-wheeled lifestyle.

There's everything from cúpla focail on your bicycle on Friday night, there's dawn rides, there's biosphere bikes and birds, there's a swim and a cycle, and there's something for everybody

— Donna CooneyDescribing the variety of free events available during Bike Week in Dublin.

In Dublin, the energy is palpable, with the flagship event 'Pedal Power' at Eamonn Ceannt Park in Crumlin drawing crowds. Attendees are treated to thrilling BMX stunt performances by Fire Ride, practical free bike repairs courtesy of The Bike Hub, and essential cycling safety lessons for children. Adding a vibrant splash of color, Dublin's Bicycle Mayor, Green Party Councillor Donna Cooney, led a lively bike parade to the park, setting a festive tone for the week ahead.

But you just book them on Eventbrite. They're all up on the website, and they're all supported by the NTA

— Donna CooneyExplaining how to register for some of the free Bike Week events.

Councillor Cooney highlighted the diverse array of free activities available across the city. "There's everything from cúpla focail on your bicycle on Friday night, there's dawn rides, there's biosphere bikes and birds, there's a swim and a cycle, and there's something for everybody," she enthused, emphasizing that while some events require booking due to numbers, all are supported by the NTA and accessible via local authority websites.

You can get all the ones in Dublin on the Dublin City Council website and at the other local authority websites as well

— Donna CooneyDirecting people to where they can find information on Bike Week events.

Beyond the organized events, the spirit of cycling is embodied by enthusiasts like 82-year-old Jimmy Lally. A lifelong cyclist who joined a club at 15 and raced for 60 seasons, Lally still cycles approximately 300km a week, describing it as "like a drug" he can't quit. His dedication underscores the profound impact cycling can have on health and well-being, a message that resonates deeply within Ireland as we encourage more people to get on their bikes.

I can't give it up. I do something every day on the bike – actually every day. If I don't do a little bit in the garage (on a static bike), I go out.

— Jimmy LallyExpressing his lifelong dedication to cycling and its importance in his daily routine.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by RTÉ News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog