Teachers at Ardnashee 'bursting with pride' as cyclists raise £15,000 for kids

The three month long 10,000 miles cycling challenge was finally completed on Sunday as the PTA and children and parents from the school came together to greet the fundraisers at Ardnashee.

The testing challenge, which almost, collectively, equates to the length of the Great Wall of China, was completed by Mark Crossan, David Walker, James McMonagle, Gary Curran, Marty McNutt, Dee O'Hara, Darren Boyle, Ryan McGee, John McConnell and Simon Collins.

And with the help of local celebrities, Ireland and Stoke City winger, James McClean and Snow Patrol's Johnny McDaid who both pledged significant amounts of money during the challenge, the group surpassed their £10,000 target.

It's been a hard slog and there's been literally blood, sweat and tears spilled as the group braved the elements, torrential rain, storms, fallen trees, busted tyres and plenty of falls in order to get the miles on the clock.

Undoubtedly the highlight of the challenge was when the cyclist took part in an 'emotional journey' around the streets of some of the school's pupils to get them involved in the challenge.

Thanks to the kindness of everyone who donated to the cause, the monies raised will benefit each and every pupil at the Racecourse Road school.

Each of the 42 classes at the school will be allocated a sum of money which will be used to enhance the learning and enjoyment of their respective pupi;lls to ensure they have the best provision possible.

Considering how the school’s PTA has run into difficulties this year due to the Covid-19 crisis as the pandemic curtailed its plans to stage a Strictly Come Dancing, quiz and other fundraisers, the significant amount of money raised was warmly welcomed by the school.

"I can't thank them enough for the phenomenal amount of money they have raised for the school," said PTA Chairperson, Clare McDaid

"They have made over £15,000 and it's such an amazing amount of money, especially in these strange times we're living in.

"We had Strictly Come Dancing organised, quizzes and other events which all had to be cancelled because of Covid-19.

"Even if we were to do those events I don't think we would've raised £15,000 so for a group of fellas to come together and raise that kind of money for our school - I just can't believe it.

"As a parent of a child at the school, I can't begin to tell you how amazing the kids at the school are and how much they deserve this money.

"It's great and I can't thank them all enough for doing it. We'll never forget you all for it and your money will go a long, long way in helping the kids in Ardnashee."

Head of Senior School at Ardnashee, Sinead Crossan, whose husband Mark took part in the challenge was over the moon with the total raised.

"All schools are struggling financially and what these men have done is they've really stood up and put our school first. The money will just go so far for our young people. I'm just bursting with pride."

And school principal, Raymond McFeeters added: "It's a massive achievement. Many people have raised funds for us but I don't think anybody has ever taken on a physical challenge anywhere near what they have achieved.

"Every single penny will go towards helping our kids in school."

You can still donate to this very worthy cause here