Lap of the Lakes brings community together in support of local school
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Pictured at the Lap of the Lakes sponsored cycle 2026 were, from left: Paddy Curran, Darragh Kenny, John Kearney and Padraig Kenny at Scoil Naomh Pádraig, Clochbhreac.Image 2 of 14
Cousins Micheál Casey (left) and Ruaidhrí Kineavy.Image 3 of 14
Cyclists taking part in the Lap of the Lakes. From left: Bronagh Colton, Damien Ryan, Aoife Joyce and Martin Donnelly, with Bernadette Kearney, marshal.Image 4 of 14
From left: Jerome Mannion, lead car, Tom Feerick and Aimie Feerick, taking part in the Lap of the Lakes, with Caroline Joyce, marshal, and Johnny Kenny, first responder.Image 5 of 14
Enjoying the bia agus deoch, ceoil agus craic at the Lap of the Lakes were, from left: Martin Donnelly, Aoibhínn Devery Kineavy and Helen Curran with Aoibhínn’s baby Seoidín at Scoil Naomh Pádraig, Clochbhreac.Image 6 of 14
Liam Coyne and son Conor at Scoil Naomh Pádraig.Image 7 of 14
Nurse Margaret Kineavy and nurse Eilis Coyne, delighted that not even a plaster was required at the Lap of the Lakes sponsored cycle 2026.Image 8 of 14
Garda Recbecca from Clifden Garda Station pictured at the Lap of the Lakes sponsored cycle 2026.Image 9 of 14
From left: príomhoide Áine Ni Mhainin with múinteoir Gráinne Ní Chonaire at Scoil Naomh Pádraig, Clochbhreac.Image 10 of 14
Irish dancer Keira Flynn, who took part in the World Championships in Chicago 2026, performed for guests at Scoil Naomh Pádraig.Image 11 of 14
Pictured at the Lap of the Lakes sponsored cycle were, from left: John Flynn, Damien Coyne, Mikie Coyne and Eilis Coyne. MargaretImage 12 of 14
David Deane (left) and Gary Silke.Image 13 of 14
From left: Martin Flynn, Sinead Waters, Niall Waters, Martin Donnelly and Des Joyce.Image 14 of 14
Jerome Mannion (left) and Liam Ó Floinn.THE scenic roads surrounding Loch na Fooey and Lough Mask Upper came alive as cyclists from near and far gathered for the much-anticipated Lap of the Lakes 2026 sponsored cycle.
Cyclists joined virtually from as far away as Australia as locally participants took part in two routes tailored to suit all abilities: a challenging long cycle around Loch na Fooey and a shorter, family-friendly route around the Upper Mask.
Everyone was warmly welcomed, ensuring inclusivity and strong participation across all age groups and fitness levels. And cyclists returned to Scoil Naomh Pádraig to enjoy a well-deserved 'ceol agus craic, bia agus deoch'.
The event was organised as a fundraiser, with proceeds going towards initiatives supporting Scoil Naomh Pádraig and sustaining the future of the school within the community.
A key focus of this year’s campaign is the 'Moving West Campaign' initiative, led by the parents and community committee. This forward-thinking project aims to encourage a family with primary school-aged children to relocate to the area and enrol in the school, helping to strengthen and grow student numbers.
To support prospective families, the initiative offers:
* Access to a dedicated mentor to assist with relocation and settling into the community.
* Help connecting with local homeowners offering rental accommodation.
* A €2,000 support package to assist with relocation and travel expenses.
The success of Lap of the Lakes 2026 highlights the strength, generosity, and spirit of the local community, as well as its commitment to preserving rural education and welcoming new families to the area. This is a wonderful opportunity for children to be educated in the beautiful Joyce Country Gaeltacht area surrounded by the Irish language and culture.
Any family with primary school age children interested in learning more about the Moving West Campaign initiative or exploring relocation opportunities is encouraged to contact the parents and community committee via email at movingwestcampaign@gmail.com or WhatsApp on (087) 6543535.
Further information can be got on the school website, snpclochbhreac.com, and Facebook and Instagram.