IHCPT Biennial Pilgrimage Cycle to Lourdes
1984 was the year of the first sponsored cycle to Lourdes. Six cyclists and two backup people left Ireland and journeyed through France staying in camp sites on route. From this small group has evolved a most important aspect of The Irish Pilgrimage Trust: the biennial cycle to Lourdes. Every second year a group of cyclists prepare to cycle from the north of France to Lourdes. Over the years the departing venue has changed: Dieppe and Cherbourg when we travelled by boat, Beauvais and Dinard when we took to the air. Likewise the route has changed: each year the principal organisers - Pat Jordan and Michael McGloin - adapt the route in light of experience.
Follow us on FacebookIn 2010, 152 cyclists set off from Dinard. Flying from Shannon they met up with the vehicles that had travelled by ferry to France. Bikes were reunited with cyclists and it was southward bound, full steam ahead. A backup team of 15 provide essential care on the road: mechanical for the bikes, encouragement and nourishment for the cyclists. Accommodation is now in hotels on route - a far cry from the camp sites of the first year.
This sponsored cycle is an essential fundraiser for The Irish Pilgrimage Trust. Each cyclist is obliged to raise 2,500 euro and pay 500 euro to The Trust. While the fundraising is important the pilgrimage aspect is also highlighted. Those who participate in the cycle are also part of the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes. Arrival in Lourdes is on Good Friday and some of the cyclists, after two days' rest, join groups in Lourdes for the Easter Pilgrimage. Those who cannot stay this week enjoy two days in Lourdes and participate in the liturgies at the Grotto during these days.
Next Cycle to Lourdes
- Easter 2012
€100 deposit (non-refundable) must accompany each completed Application Form.
Click here to visit La Brise Cycle Club
Newletter Cycle 2008 - (.pdf)
Christmas Cycle Newsletter 2009
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