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Sperrinview Special School, Dungannon

Torrent Cycle Club Raise Money for Sperrinview and Air Ambulance NI

4th Aug 2022

From 02-05 June 2022, 21 members of Torrent Cycle Club took on the successful 380 mile challenge from Mizen Head in Cork to Malin Head in Donegal.  Two additional members were to participate as well, but unfortunately could not make it on the day due to unforeseen circumstances.

In addition to the cyclists there were two vans carrying bicycle spares and repairs as well as nutrition and refreshments for the journey.

Training started during the Winter months with spin classes, before moving on to outdoor cycle training.

The cyclists completed the challenge and enjoyed the camaraderie as well as the epic nature of the ride.

Sadly, one of the cyclists, Seamus McGrath, who provided taxi services to some Sperrinview pupils, passed away on the day following the cycle.  We offer our sincerest sympathies to his family and friends and will keep them in our prayers.

On Friday 29th July, the two chosen charities were invited to Gervin's bar in Coalisland, where they heard about the cycle, watched a slide show of the weekend, saw the cyclists and supporters receive awards and were then presented with a cheque for £19,000 each!

Miss Paula Jordan, Principal, accepted  the cheque on behalf of Sperrinview.  Mrs Kathleen McKee, who works in the kitchen in Sperrinview, was also at the presentation as two of her brothers participated in the cycle.  She also was photographed at the presentation.  Miss Jordan gave her heartfelt thanks for the enormous effort put in by all the involved members.  She explained that the money would be spent on a second sensory intervention room for the school.  With the number of pupils experiencing sensory challenges, this room and it's equipment is essential and could not be afforded from the school budget.  

Sperrinview plan to name the new Sensory Intervention Room "The Torrent Room", and will invite members of the club to attend an opening ceremony later in the new school year.

Once again, we offer our sincere thanks to all who made this possible.