*Photograph: Joe Buckley
SHANNON will once again be the starting point as the Odd Socks Cycle returns for its fifth year.
Over 250 cyclists are set to depart from St Patrick’s Comprehensive School in Shannon at 09:30 on Sunday March 22nd and head in the direction of East Clare with options of 50km or 100km cycles.
Down Syndrome Clare and Club Rothaíochta na Sionainne have teamed up once again for the Odd Socks Cycle.
All cyclists are encouraged to wear odd socks with prizes awarded on the day for the most creative and adventurous socks on display.
Maeve Crawford, branch secretary of Down Syndrome Clare outlined, “The event plays a crucial role in raising much-needed funds, as the branch relies solely on fundraising efforts and does not receive Government or Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) funding. All proceeds go directly towards essential therapies for members in County Clare, including Speech and Language Therapy, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, swimming, and recreational activities.
“The branch is embarking on the refurbishment of a property in Ennis also, which will serve as a central hub for members, offering a dedicated space for therapies, administration, training, and social events. The headquarters will be transformative, enhancing the lives of members across County Clare,” she added.
This year, the cycle takes place on the same weekend as ‘World Down Syndrome Day’, a day to celebrate and raise awareness of all individuals with Down Syndrome. People with Down Syndrome carry three copies of chromosome 21, and so World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on the 21st day of the third month.
Further details are available on The Odd Socks Cycle page on Facebook along with Down Syndrome Clare’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Registration is now open on Eventmaster.ie.
