Mayo Bike Week is a celebration of the benefits of cycling

Bike Week is a celebration and promotion of the benefits of cycling. It was launched in Mayo last weekend and will run until Sunday, May 18.

There are multiple environmental and health benefits to cycling to school, but, most importantly, cycling is one of the most efficient and rewarding ways to get to school.

Cycling, as a mode of travel, is on the increase with more people choosing to cycle for shorter journeys.

The Green-Schools Travel programme aims to encourage more students to regularly cycle to school.

To support this aim, these programmes focus on promoting the benefits of active travel, reducing the number of cars at the school gate and delivering cycling infrastructure to schools.

There will be lots of exciting events happening throughout the county during the week and here is a list of some of them which have been promoted by Mayo Sports Partnership.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

BIKE MAINTENANCE WORKSHOP

For new cyclists, and people who would like to learn new skills. Hosted by Ballina Cycling Club.

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Ballina Cycling Club

Suitability: Adults of all ages and abilities

Contact ballinacyclingclub@gmail.com or (086) 3948410.

THURSDAY, MAY 16

SEAT TO SADDLE

4-week training programme, supported by Belcarra Cycling Club.

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Belcarra Church Car Park

Suitability: Over 18

Contact 0879857410 or belcarracyclingclub@gmail.com. FRIDAY MAY 17

TEENS ON WHEELS

Short local cycle to see if you fancy making it a weekly habit, supported by Belcarra Cycling Club.

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Belcarra Church Car Park

Suitability: Teenagers

Contact (087) 9857410 or belcarracyclingclub@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

TRY A TRIA

Mini triathlon, hosted by Liquid Motion Triathlon Club. A great way to try this multi-sport event.

Time: 8.30 a.m.

Location: Great National Hotel, Ballina

Suitability: Beginners / anyone wishing to return to the sport after a break!

For information: Elizabeth Young at Liquidmotiontriclub@gmail.com.

INSTRUCTED FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRAIL RIDE

For families and individuals of all ages. Fun challenges and activities that promote cycling as a healthy and enjoyable family activity.

Time: Morning activities at 9.30 a.m.; afternoon at 2 p.m.

Location: Delphi Resort Adventure Hub, Leenane.

Suitability: Families

Contact host Delphi Resort: DM@delphiresort.com. Booking: Call (095) 42107.

BICYCLE REPAIR CLINIC BALLYHAUNIS

Bicycle Repair Clinic, group cycle and cycle sale, swap.

Time: 10 a.m. - 1.30 p.m.

Location: Community Hall, Ballyhaunis

Suitability: All

Contact ballyhauniscommunitycouncil@gmail.com.

GIVE IT HOLLY MOUNTAIN BIKE RUN

Travel by mountain bike through the hills and valleys of Belleek Woods.

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Belleek Woods, meet at soccer pitch.

Suitability: All levels, children from 12 upwards

Contact Patrick O’Brien, 087 2540345 / ballinasportshub@gmail.com.

GENTLE LEISURELY CYCLE

Travel at your own pace through Belleek trails and bring a picnic.

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Ballina Town FC car park.

Suitability: All levels, children from 12 upwards.

For more information, contact Patrick O’Brien at email ballinasportshub@gmail.com or (087) 2540345.