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IHCPT
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CYCLE
2008 interested........ cycle2008@ihcpt.com |
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| 1982 was the year of the first sponsored cycle to Lourdes.
Six cyclists and two backup people left Ireland and journeyed through
France staying in camp sites on route. From this small group has evolved
a most important aspect of IHCPT: the biennial cycle to Lourdes. Every
second year a group of cyclists prepare to cycle from the north of France
to Lourdes. Over the years the departing venue has changed: Le Havre when
we travelled by boat, Beauvais and Dinard when we took to the air. Likewise
the route has changed: each year the principal organisers - Pat Jordan
and Michael McGloin - adapt the route in light of experience.
In 2004 84 cyclist set off from Dinard. Flying from Shannon they met up with the vehicles that had travelled by ferry to France. Bikes were reunited with cyclists and it was southward bound, full steam ahead. A backup team of 12 provide essential care on the road: mechanical for the bikes, encouragement and nourishment for the cyclists. Accommodation is now in hotels on route - a far cry from the camp sites of the first year. This sponsored cycle is an essential fundraiser for IHCPT. Each cyclists is obliged to raise 2,500 euro and pay 500 euro to IHCPT. While the fundraising is important the pilgrimage aspect is also highlighted. Those who participate in the cycle are also part of the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes. Arrival in Lourdes is on Good Friday and many of the cyclists, after two days' rest, join groups in Lourdes for the Easter Pilgrimage. Those who cannot stay this week enjoy two days at the Lourdes and participate in the liturgies at the Grotto during these days. |
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Next Cycle to Lourdes Easter 2008 |
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