Wishing you a wheel-y great Christmas...

Get ready to don your festive attire and deck the halls with joy for the 15th annual Cork Christmas Cracker Cycle.

Taking place on 30 November, this heartwarming yearly event is dedicated to supporting the vital services delivered to families all over Cork by Marymount Hospice.

Three-time Olympian, Cork’s Sanita Puspure, officially kicked off the festivities earlier this month when she launched this year’s event with the help of representatives of the many clubs that have loyally supported the Marymount Christmas Cracker Cycle over the years.

These clubs come together to make a positive impact for Marymount at Christmas, as they fundraise and compete to be nominated as the best supported club.

Adding to the festive flair, 93 year old Jack Callanan, a beloved neighbour of Sanita and a guiding light in the event’s history since 2011, joined her at the launch. Together with Sanita and a merry band of cyclists, they embody the community spirit that makes this event so special.

This year, Marymount will be offering prizes for Best Club and Best Costume, so unleash your creativity, deck yourself out in your most festive garb, and adorn your bikes with holiday decorations to spread joy along the route!

With motorcycle marshals and support vehicles, the event will be well-signposted and safe for all participants.

Cyclists will be greeted with refreshments before they set off and welcomed back to Marymount with a feast of hot soup, sandwiches, and delightful festive treats, perfect for recharging after a day of cycling and celebration.

This year, participants can choose between two scenic routes: the 60km Mini Cracker or the 80km Maxi Cracker.

Full route details and maps are available at idonate.ie/event/marymountchristmascrackercycle2024.

As always, there is no entry fee for the event. Participants are encouraged to make a voluntary donation to help them support Marymount’s vital mission.

This year, Marymount’s goal is to raise €3.5 million to continue to provide the highest standard of essential services to those who need it and their families.