Cycling 70 kilometres a day for ten days through rough African terrain is what awaits one Mullingar man, who is preparing to raise thousands of euro for charity in the process.
Originally from Ardmore Road, Mullingar, Gavin Hannon has been living in Dublin for the past number of years, where he works in retail. In just a few weeks time on 13 November, he, along with seven other volunteers will cycle a total of 315 kilometre over a ten day period through the mountainous region of North Rukiga in south west-Uganda.
Gavin’s reason for choosing to take up the challenge came by chance, but a truly-worthy chance at that. “I was finding I’d a bit of time on my hands after work and though contributing to charity in some shape or form would be useful. I approached WorldVision and told them my time was theirs if they wanted me for anything,” It was with this request that 34-year-old Gavin got the offer of doing much more than bucket collecting or leaflet distribution
“They asked my if I was up for cycling across Uganda to raise funds for the communities of North Rukiga, an area where they’ve partner with local people to improve the wellbeing of children and their families.”
Agreeing to take up the challenge, Gavin has now found himself in the depths of fundraising, with a little over €1,000 left to collect until he reaches his target of €5,000.
In preparation his marathon challenge, Gavin has been active in training, cycling over 30 kilometre on a daily basis. “It’s tough when you’re not a cycling novice, but it’s essential training,” he says. “It will change your opinion about money when you see the smile on someones face,” he concluded.
World Vison has been working with the communities of North Rukiga since 2004 though the ADP. The (ADP) Area Development Programme is an area where World Vision partner with local people to improve the wellbeing of children and their families.
85.3% of the population of North Rukiga ADP feed their families and make a living through agriculture. However, still 79.9% of households earn less than 50,000 Ugandan shillings, that works out at 0.85cent per person a week, or 0.12cent per person a day.
Funds raised from this cycle will make a huge difference to these communities as poverty like this affects health, education and infrastructure.
To donate to Gavin’s worthy cause visit www.mycharity.ie/event/gavin_hannons_event/
