|
Handymen say good morning to Vietnam
By Elaine Sheridan
 A
group of GAA handymen are heading for the hills of Vietnam to complete
a charity cycle ride.
The four former Tir Chonaill Gaels are currently preparing for their up-coming
adventure through vast jungles, which will see them cover a distance of
over 1,000 kilometres each in just 10 days.
The group has a combined total of £10,000 to raise before they head-off
for their mammoth trip.
And while painter-decorators Stevie Keane and Steve McLoughlin along with
plumber Chris McGovern and car0penter Maurice Somers have been training
three to four nights a week for the trip, they have now kick-started a
series of fundraising activities in their local areas.
Stevie Keane, who lives in Ickenham but is originally from Irvinestown
in Co. Fermanagh said: “One of the guys found out about it and suggested
we take part.
“We’re all good friends and decided it would be a nice adventure
while also raising money for our chosen charities.
“It’s a great opportunity to see another country in the process.”
All proceeds raised by the footballers will go towards helping various
good causes, which include the Alzheimer’s Society, Muscular Dystrophy
and Against Breast Cancer.
Stevie said: “We’ve had really good support. Family and friends
have been really generous with helping us raise our target of £10,000.
“The GAA community in Ruislip have also been fantastic to us and
have helped us on our way.”
Up to 40 participants from all over Britain will take-part in the cycle
challenge.
It will cover the remote and traditional north of Vietnam where the bicycle
is still the most important mode of transport.
The group fly to the capital city of Hanoi on October 27 to start the
mammoth challenge.
And in order to be certain of reaching their target money, an ’80s-themed
disco has been planned in the Tir Chonaill Gaels clubhouse in Greenford
for September.
Stevie, Steve McLoughlin and Mark Somers are all regular players in the
lower levels of London football and former team member Chris McGovern
has only recently moved back to Ireland where he is now living and working
in Co. Waterford.
If you would like to help in the fundraising efforts or donate to any
of the charities above then contact 077 8872 3922. |
