Dublin - Ireland: One of the world's greatest cyclists, Irishman Stephen Roche, will lead a group of charity cyclists from Ireland, UK and USA over the finish line at Nice, France as part of the Paris2Nice Charity Challenge in aid of Special Olympics and Cerebral Palsy Ireland. Starting on September 29th, the cyclists will cycle 700kms from Paris to Nice over 6 days crossing the finish on October 4th. The support of Stephen Roche will provide a significant boost to the Paris2Nice cyclists who will be in the saddle up to 6 hours a day. 

“I am really looking forward to encouraging the cyclists over the finish line,” says Stephen Roche. “I am very familiar with the Paris2Nice route and know how challenging it is, particularly for those cyclists who are opting to conquer the 25km ascent to Mount Ventoux. It is always wonderful to come together with other cycling enthusiasts to use the joy and power of cycling to help transform people’s lives”.

2012 marks the third year for Paris2Nice Charity Cycle Challenge and its most successful year to date with a record number of cyclists recruited and funds raised. While the route can be challenging, the biggest attraction is the fun and camaraderie shared between the cyclists. Event organisers run a summer schedule of training opportunities as well as providing support to each cyclist with their fundraising efforts.

“We are thrilled that Stephen Roche will join us for the last leg of Paris2Nice” says Mary Davis, Regional President, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia. “Celebrations will be even bigger now in Nice on October 4th as we applaud the achievements of our cyclists in meeting the challenge and being so successful in raising funds. We will also take the opportunity to mark the 25th anniversary of Stephen’s outstanding achievement in 1987 when he won the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia and the World Championship.”

Funds raised by the Paris2Nice cycle challenge will provide opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and cerebral palsy throughout Ireland and Europe to experience the joy of year-round sports training and competition in their local communities. The funds will be used to purchase equipment, transport, coaching development, clothing as well as help with recruiting more athletes for Special Olympics and Cerebral Palsy clubs across Ireland.

visit www.paris2nice.com

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