A LIVELY Limerick granny with energy to burn cycled from Westport to Achill to raise funds for Milford Hospice.
Christine Collins (72), from Pennywell, cycles 16kms every day, in and out from Ardnacrusha to babysit her granddaughter, Kerry. And this summer the keen cyclist decided to take to her rothar and pedal the 30km distance along the Great Western Greenway for a very worthy cause.
“Milford do amazing work. My brother-in-law died there, so I decided to do this cycle to help raise some money for them,” Christine explains.
“I was going to do the Ring of Kerry but when I heard about the Westport to Achill route, it seemed like a better idea as more people are out cycling on it,” she says.
Cycling since she was four-years-of age, Christine raised €850 for Milford and the 30km ride didn’t even knock a sweat out of her.
“I set off at 10 o’clock in the morning and was in Achill by 3pm. It was a lovely day, I really enjoyed the cycle and everyone was very supportive. It’s a beautiful part of the world too with lovely scenery, I loved it,” she enthuses.
This infectiously vivacious pensioner sees cycling as a great way to stay fit and recommends everyone gives it a go. Bubbly and all smiles, she believes there would be less medicine given out by doctor’s if more people got out on their bikes.
“I have five daughters and one son. They all think I’m mad but I love it, it keeps me fit. My granddaughter cycles three miles with with me now everyday as well, which is great.
“I’m going to do the Ring of Kerry for Milford Hospice now next June. They need the money,” she said.
