Arva gears up for Breffni Challenge
Three Provinces Races
The community of Arva is once again gearing up for the Breffni Three Province Challenge to take place over the August bank holiday weekend.
This amazing charity event dates back to 2001 and has raised well over €1M for various cancer charities over the intervening years including St Luke's Hospital, Cavan and Monaghan Palliative Care and the Breast Cancer Research Ireland (BCRI) facility in Galway.
Whether you want to run or cycle in support of these great charities, there is an event or route to suit your fitness levels.
The 100km cycle traverses three provinces as it travels through Leitrim, Longford and Cavan and crosses the finish line back in Arva. Shorter cycle routes of 50km and 30km are also available.
The event also features a 10km half marathon and there is also a 5km race, which participants can choose to run or walk. Support and numerous refreshments stations are provided along the routes.
“People have participated in the events over the years from all over Ireland,” according to one of the organisers, Philip Brady.
“We love to see people coming from all over the place to take part in an amazing fundraising event and also to showcase the beauty of the area," added Philip.
The homecoming event in Arva is always a big highlight as those who complete the challenge are guaranteed a rousing reception and can celebrate in style. The great Eddie Quinn will be providing the music and Elvis might even make an appearance, together with some other mystery stars.
There will be medals and t-shirts for all those who register for the various events.
Michael Ellis from Fresh Today has been one of the main sponsors of the challenge from the outset. “It is a great event to be involved with over the years and helps to bring the community together,” he enthused.
“It is a great community event and over 900 people took part last year and those who participate have a great feeling of achievement when they cross the line in the various events,” added Michael.
A buffet will also be provided in the Breffni Arms Hotel courtesy of Eamon and Philomena Gray and music will be provided by Tempo featuring John and Niall Gormley, who are also both active members of the Challenge Committee.
The three main sponsors of the Challenge are Brady Garage, Fresh Today and the Breffni Arms Hotel. Philip Brady extended his thanks to them and also all the local businesses who assist in various ways on the day.
Check out the Breffni Challenge Facebook page for online registration details.
For those wishing to register the evening before, registration runs from 7-8:30pm on Friday, August 1.
The Challenge itself will commence at 10am on Saturday morning, August 2, for the 100km cycle race. There are a total of seven events with staggering start times, with the 5km run/walk setting off at 12:30pm. Children U12 can only participate in the 5km and 7km events.