Sunchasers set to ride again with a special stop at Curraghboy NS

Following the outstanding success of last year’s Sunchasers Cycle, the team are back in the saddle for 2026, with another ambitious journey taking place on May 8th and 9th —all in aid of Pieta and Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Cyclists will depart Bective Rangers in Donnybrook at 7:45 a.m. on Friday May 8th, heading west in pursuit of the setting sun, with an overnight stop in Athlone before completing the journey to Galway the following day. This year’s cycle coincides with the Connacht v Munster clash in Dexcom Stadium, as well as Pieta’s flagship Darkness Into Light event—providing powerful motivation for all involved.

A major highlight of this year’s event is the introduction of the “Extra Mile”, bringing the Sunchasers directly into the heart of the community at Curraghboy National School in South Roscommon.

On the evening of May 8th, cyclists will depart the Athlone Springs Hotel at 5 p.m. for an 11km spin to Curraghboy National School, where a warm community welcome is expected.

“For families and younger cyclists, a Mini Extra Mile will begin at Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum and finish at Curraghboy National School, offering a short, fun and inclusive cycle for all ages,” said school principal Rory Leonard.

“Organisers are particularly encouraging strong participation from Derryglad, Curraghboy, and surrounding areas to ensure a fantastic turnout at the school.” Curraghboy NS is supporting the Sunchasers initiative, building on the community spirit shown in 2025 when over €14,000 was raised.

“The school continues to lead the way in innovation and sustainability, with projects such as its award-winning SMART Polytunnel, where pupils use digital technologies like micro:bits to monitor plant growth and environmental conditions. Alongside this, the school’s QR-code litter tracking initiative—developed in partnership with Curraghboy Tidy Towns—demonstrates how pupils in Curraghboy National School are actively engaging with their local environment and making a meaningful impact,” said Mr Leonard.

“These initiatives reflect the same values that underpin the Sunchasers Cycle: teamwork, resilience, inclusion, and community.” On May 9th, cyclists will depart Athlone Springs Hotel at 10 a.m., before gathering momentum for the final leg of the journey.

Cyclists of all abilities are invited to join the “Last Leg” Cycle, departing The Filling Station in Athenry at 2 p.m. for a 23km spin into Eyre Square and onward to Dexcom Stadium—bringing the journey to a fitting and memorable close.

“Events like this are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together,” said Mr Leonard. “The funds raised will directly support the vital work of Pieta and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, helping individuals and families across Ireland.

“As the saying goes, ‘Ní neart go cur le chéile’—there is no strength without unity—and nowhere is that more evident than in the ongoing support from the community around Curraghboy National School.” The Sunchasers are calling on cyclists, families, and supporters from across the region—particularly from Athlone and Derryglad—to get involved, whether by taking part or by coming out to support the cyclists as they arrive at Curraghboy National School.

Donations can be made by clicking here , with every contribution helping the team go the extra mile for two very worthy causes.

“Let’s keep the wheels turning—and gather in strength at Curraghboy National School this May,” concluded Mr Leonard.