28-07-2025
Wicklow adventurer to take on 750km cycling challenge for charity
Nigel Jenkinson of Redcross got back into cycling in 2022 after training with a friend for a Quest event, which consisted of a mixture of running, cycling and kayaking. He then decided to partake in the Ring of Clare 2022 160km cycle challenge.
Now he has set himself a new challenge, involving a 750km cycle across France.
'A few years ago I got back on my bike and set myself a challenge of cycling 160km event. I applied to take part in the Ring of Clare and was hooked, I decided to raise money for a local charity and I called into Wicklow Cancer Support and raised over €2,000 for them.
'Now this September, I'm trading my comfy couch for a bike seat and embarking on a six-day cycling odyssey from Paris to Nice, because why not go big or go home,' said Nigel.
The charity ride starts on September 6, and Nigel is under no illusions over just how challenging the venture will prove, from both a mental and physical perspective.
'I'll be tackling everything from the charming streets of Montargis to the legendary climbs of Mount Ventoux. It's a journey that promises to test my legs, my resolve, and my ability to pronounce French town names correctly.
'But this isn't just about proving I can survive on energy gels and questionable French pastries. I'm pedalling for a purpose: raising funds for the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland. This cause is close to my heart, as my family, like many others, has been touched by the challenges of Alzheimer's.'
In Ireland, approximately 64,000 people are currently living with dementia. This number is projected to more than double by 2045, reaching an estimated 150,131, due to the increasing and aging population.
Nigel has established an idonate page to help raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland and will be covering all the costs associated with the trip from his own pocket.
He added: 'I'm covering all my own costs, so every euro you donate goes straight to supporting vital services and research for those affected by dementia in Ireland. With 11,000 new cases diagnosed each year, and numbers expected to rise, your support is more important than ever.'
Nigel will be sharing regular updates on his training progress, and once he sets off on his journey, he will also provide daily updates from the event itself.
