Cycle Against Suicide has become the biggest participation sportive in the country but has today been tragically hit with a fatal accident (Photo: www.cycleagainstsuicide.com)
Ireland’s largest participation sportive, Cycle Against Suicide has been hit with tragedy today, Wednesday, with news that a motorcycle marshal has died following a road traffic collision.
The marshal lost his life not long after the tenth day of the 14 day challenge got underway today, when the riders were tackling the terrain in the north west of the Republic.
The event for today was abandoned as a mark of respect and because officials and riders were devastated after what had occurred. At the time of writing no decision had been taken about the remainder of the event.
The organisers issued a statement confirming the death of the 69-year-old marshal had occurred. It read: "A fatal traffic accident occurred at approximately 11.30 this morning on day ten of the Cycle Against Suicide Cycle, along the Donegal to Strabane route.
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“The accident, involving a motorcycle marshal and another vehicle, happened approximately 45 minutes after the group of cyclists departed from Donegal town. Tragically, the motorcycle marshal lost his life in this accident.
“No cyclists were involved in the accident and all cyclists returned to Donegal following the accident.
“No decision has been made as yet with regards to the remaining four days of the cycle.”
Jim Breen, founder of Cycle Against Suicide, expressed his sadness and shock at what had occurred.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with our dear friend and his family at this incredibly difficult time. Our hearts are simply broken," he said.
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The Garda is investigating the fatal collision and issued a statement this evening supplying further information.
It said the investigation was being carried out by gardai in Ballybofey station, adding the crash was between the motorbike marshal and a truck and had occurred at Loughmor, Barnsmore Gap, between Donegal town and Ballybofey at approximately 11.50am
“A male aged 69 years was seriously injured in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene,” the Garda statement added.
“He was taken to Letterkenny General hospital where a post mortem was carried out. The driver of the truck was uninjured. The road was closed to facilitate a Forensic Collision Examination and has since reopened.”
Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact the Gardai in Ballybofey on 074 913770, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
Cycle Against Suicide was started by entrepreneur Breen as a result of his appearance on RTE’s The Secret Millionaire programme.
The main objective of the cycle is to raise awareness of the considerable help and supports that are available for anyone battling depression, self harm, at risk of suicide or those bereaved by suicide.
This year's event began last Monday, April 28th and was due to conclude this Sunday, May 11th. It is unclear it today's fatality with force an early halt to the event.
As it did in 2013, the cycle is aiming to create a very tangible and practical opportunity for people who want to support those who have been affected by suicide.
Stickybottle wishes to extend our deepest sympathies to the dead man's family and to all of those involved in what is a wonderful event.
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