Riders to tackle Lap The Lough route in the name of annual charity boost

The fundraiser offers riders the chance to tackle a route around the biggest lake in Ireland and Britain - all in the name of charity.

Organised by the not-for-profit Upbeat Agency, Lap The Lough is designed to “promote cycling and participation” on August 28.

“Over the past 10 years the event has encouraged cyclists of all ages, shapes, speeds and sizes to ride over 1,000,000 miles on the roads hugging the shores of Lough Neagh,” said an organiser. “Lap The Lough is not a bike race but a challenge to promote cycling and participation. 

“After the start in Dungannon, a few short Tyrone miles, the event will roll into County Armagh on the way to Ardress, Scotch Street, Portadown and Craigavon.

“Crossing the River Blackwater means we’re in the heart of the Orchard County when the apples are really beginning to ripen.

“Then crossing the Upper Bann signals the start of the Loughshore Trial, Oxford Island and the first stop in Gawleys Gate, where the cyclists get a chance to pull in and get their first real view of the massive challenge ahead of them.”

For route details or information on the two bespoke 10-week training programmes then visit www.lapthelough.org.

Thanks also go to sponsors Bank Of Ireland, Saltmarine Cars, Victory Chimp, McConveys Cycles, Lucozade and ClifBar for such loyal support.