Ballymahon to host Honda 50 and Motorbike Fun Run in July

The annual Honda 50 and Motorbike Fun Run will take place in Ballymahon on Sunday, July 6.

Now in its fourth year, the proceeds from this year's event will benefit the Ballymahon Defibrillator Group, it being three years since the voluntary committee were the recipients of a fundraising initiative.

Speaking on behalf of the Ballymahon Defibrillator Group Darren Mulledy stressed the importance of funds availability to enable the purchase of pads and batteries.

"Ballymahon Defibrillator Group have 10 defibrillators operating on a Public Access Defibrillators system. Each device uses either a five or seven year battery and two sets of pads which need to be changed every two years or whenever they are used. Pads cost €130 per unit and a five year battery costs approximately €400.

"We have three defibrillators in Ballymahon town, one at Nally’s Circle K, one at Applegreen on the Edgeworthstown road and one at Maxol Centra on the Athlone road. We also have a defibrillator at Alex Stanley’s house near the Redbridge and one at Foigha bar on the Lanesboro road.

"There are also three defibrillators in Tang parish, one at Tang church, one at Tang GAA pitch and one at Maghera pub, while there are two defibrillators in the parish Forgney, one at Forgney church and the other at Forgney school and GAA pitch.

"Ballymahon Defibrillator Group also provide free training in CPR and the use of the defibrillator," Darren said.

Peter Hanley Motors has been confirmed as the main sponsor of this year's event.

"Peter and David are allowing us to use their facilities so we can serve refreshments before and after the run and have our raffle," Darren added.

Darren has made an appeal for local businesses to support their fun run in aid of Ballymahon Defibrillator Group.

"Each business that comes on board will have their photo taken with their sign and will be thanked on social media platforms," Darren said.

Registration for the fun run takes place at Egan’s Motorcycle clothing and Accessories shop, which is located beside Peter Hanley Motors. Registration opens at 10.30am with bikes departing at 12.30pm sharp.

"All proceeds on the day will help sustain the Ballymahon Defibrillator Group training programme and ensure all 10 defibrillators are maintained," Darren concluded.