Ryan spoke from the finish line at Malin head late on Tuesday afternoon to tell us how he enjoyed the tough but extremely rewarding experience. “The first 2 days were horrendous, they were the two longest days at 90 miles each and it never stopped raining from Mizen to Mallow on the first day and from Mallow through The Burren to Kinvara in Co. Galway on the second day”. On the third day the group left Kinvara drenched in the morning sunlight and made their way further north towards Ballaghderreen in Co. Roscommon and managed to avoid rain until the last few miles but spirits were high in the group and the last minute shower provided a welcome cool down. On day four they made their way through Sligo and Bundoran to Donegal Town in what turned out to be the first full day without rain. On the final way the group left Donegal town and headed up over the Barnsford Gap through Ballybofey and Burnfoot to Muff where the group were forced to endure a long lunch waiting on news of one of the group, Natasha, who was knocked of her bike by a motorist outside Burnfoot. After receiving news that Natasha has miraculously escaped the smash with only a bruised and sprained wrist the group proceeded on towards Malin Head where they were welcomed home by a large group of family and friends who had turned up to celebrate their marvellous achievement.

Ryan signed up for the challenge after getting an invite from Carina Savage whos sister Donna had recently survived cancer and set the challenge as a way of putting her troubles behind her whilst raising some vital funds for Cancer Research Uk and the Irish Cancer Society. To date the group have raised over £15000 for Cancer Research UK and €16000 for the Irish Cancer Society. You can still donate to the cause at http://www.donatetobreastcancer.org/444challenge

Ryan would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who supported him on this challenge, The Garda for escorting the group through most of the towns and cities along the way, all the individuals who donated to the challenge, all the people who accommodated the group along the way especially Kinvara Guesthouse who provided full bed and breakfast to the entire group without charge, the support crew of Aidan and Gabby, club sponsors Ardboe Coldstore, Apparo Draperstown, McGlaughlins Pharmacy Magherafelt, Structures 2000 LTD, Bicycle Shack Portglenone for servicing his bicycle and a special thanks go to Retreat Haircare for raising almost £600 at a charity blow dry.