M2m Day 5 – Excitement, relief, achievement, never again, can’t wait for the next one, once on a life time, fatigue, pride – and lots more thoughts for everyone
Letterkenny to Malin Head
Nice to be only cycling 80km in a day. But what a finishing route – legs may be hurting, but brilliant sunshine as we headed out across beautiful Donegal. And the route has a couple of testing hills 0 to check that each of us still have something in the tank.
The stop at Malin village was very special – a chance to relax, reflect – before the hype/ excitement of Malin Head itself. Lots of photos, ice-creams, chat. And then the 14km winding route out to Malin Head itself.
Malin Head – no way to avoid a sharp, nasty 150m climb – everyone made it. Wonderful to be clapped and supported all the way to the top. Lots of friends and relatives there to support. But that feeling – that you have done this – a group of 90 people – 10 working for 5 days to make sure the other 80 can sit on their bikes and cycle and get it done.
The celebrations
Down to the Seaview Tavern. Surrender the bikes to our support crew – still working. Chance to relax, catch up with supporters, rest the bodies. And an outstanding Munster Final as a bonus. And then back to Buncrana for the end of M2M2022 dinner – with some outstanding speeches/ recitations from Brendan, Liam and Jim. Great evening.
So what next?
We have seen what can be done with lots of preparation and support – moving 80 cyclists from one end of the country to the other in 5 days – safely. We have experienced what it is to be part of something like this.
I feel very privileged to have been a participant. This was my third M2M – and they have all been fantastically rewarding experiences – testing myself, building new friendships, raising money for Breast Cancer Ireland and development of our club, seeing how other people tackle challenges. Mostly, though, just being part of something very worthwhile.
Kilmacud Crokes a stronger club than ever – with all these new bonds and friendships. We will finalise all the amounts collected and handover funds to Breast Cancer Ireland and the Club in the next few weeks.
We are all a lot fitter – and much better cyclists. So – we need to get out there and enjoy cycling and every other exercise. As we were reminded last night – M2M is an event within KC Wheelers – we want people cycling regularly and enjoying it. Up the Crokes.
Finally – a few memories of 2016, 2018 and 2022 (all seems like one to me)
…and for anyone who cares – a link to 2018 M2M blog (Malin to Mizen)