Castlewellan man to take part in charity 100k challenge

Castlewellan man to take part in charity 100k challenge

23 September 2020

A COUNCILLOR is to undertake a gruelling 100km mountain bike challenge next month to raise money for a charity supporting people with head injuries.

Councillor Andrew McMurray, who represents the Mournes as an Alliance member, is taking part in the Lakelander Gravel Grinder endurance event in Belcoo, Co Fermanagh, on October 10.

He’s doing it to raise money for the Head Injury Support charity based in Newry.

An avid cyclist and mountain biker who rides miles from home to work every day, Cllr McMurray said that the charity supported his wife Shalene after she was injured in a climbing accident over 10 years ago. 

He explained: “I’m undertaking the Big Dog event, a 100km run with 1,800m of ascent in an off-road cycle in Fermanagh to raise awareness of this charity and raise some money for them. It will be a long day in the saddle as I haven’t done a long run like this in some time.”

The councillor lives with his wife and children, Lily, aged eight, and six year-old Cuan, in Castlewellan.

He has raised money the charity on other occasions and said: “My own family have been able to avail of both the advice and support by which Head Injury Support offer. My wife now lives with permanent injuries which are not usually noticeable to others.

“The outworkings of a head injury can manifest themselves in many ways, and it’s not always in ways that is immediately obvious to those not familiar with the individual in question. 

“Many may seem perfectly able and without physical ailment but face daily challenges and limitations so it’s important that charities such as Head Injury Support works to support them.”

The councillor added that the charity, which supports people from throughout the district, provides advice, support, activities and training to  individuals and families which avail of their services.

While Cllr McMurray is used to cycling in all weather, he’s hoping that the weather will be kind as the event will take most of the day.

To support the councillor’s bike challenge, please visit https://donate.kindlink.com/head-injury-support/3300.