The National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) and the Western Lakes Cycling Club this evening launched the Malin to Mizen Blazing Saddles Fundraising Cycling Tour.

Cycling from the most northerly point in Ireland, Malin Head, to the most southerly point, Mizen Head, this September the fundraisers hope to create a new record as the largest group to cycle the famous route.

Cyclists from all over Ireland are encouraged to get on their bikes and represent their club, country or region in this historic event. "It won't be easy, but it will be a trip to remember for all who participate" said Eamon Duffy, NCBI Special Events Manager. "The Blazing Saddles are well known for their expertise in planning cycling events that challenge ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things and encourage people to get cycling while raising funds for the National Council for the Blind of Ireland's library service, specifically to the provision of audio textbooks on core course material for primary and secondary school students."

Liam Horan, Chairperson of the Western Lakes Cycling Club is delighted to be involved in this event. "Our mission as a cycling club is to get as many people as possible out and enjoying the wonderful sport of cycling. There is still plenty of time for novices to prepare for this event. The Malin to Mizen Cycle, while a challenge, is not as difficult as it might seem with four different speed categories for all types. We encourage cyclists from all over Ireland to join up and we extend a special welcome to women cyclists who wish to participate."

Each cyclist will have to raise €1,000 to participate in the challenge. All costs are covered, including five nights dinner, Bed & Breakfast, insurance, people and bike transfers to and from Dublin and Athlone plus support team each day.

The team will assemble in Buncrana on Tuesday 2nd September for the following four stages south:

· Malin Head to Bundoran: Wednesday 3rd September

· Bundoran to Ballinasloe: Thursday 4th September

· Ballinasloe to Cork: Friday 5th September

· Cork to Mizen Head: Saturday 6th September

Further details and a specially prepared training schedule for novices are available from Eleanor Kirwan in the National Council for the Blind of Ireland at 1850 33 43 53 or email events@ncbi.ie.