The annual North Down Cycling Club (NDCC) Costal Challenge event took place on Sunday 17 June. Now in its seventeenth year, this is probably the most popular charity ride in the calendar with some 850 cyclists taking part. The event attracts riders from far and wide, drawn by the wonderfully scenic route around the Ards Peninsula. At 100km long and with relatively few hills, the ride is comfortable for experienced club cyclists, but also a worthwhile challenge for those newer to the sport. As ever, Sunday’s event had a broad range of competitors, with the more experienced providing encouragement for those who needed it. Club Chairman Micky Forbes said “it’s fantastic to welcome so many cyclists to North Down and the feedback from participants has been tremendous”.
Over the last five years, NDCC has raised over £40,000 for local charities and the proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to the Samaritans, St Vincent De Paul, The Salvation Army and Housing Rights. Congratulations to all those who took part, and thanks to the PSNI and the many volunteers who made the day a great success.