PARTICIPATION Cycling legend, Kelly, Gears up for Sligo Tour

Sean Kelly, one of the most iconic figures in international cycling, will be in Sligo for the big event and he's hoping for a massive turn out of individuals and families for what promises to be a wonderful occasion.

Speaking to the Sligo Champion, Kelly said he was eagerly looking forward to taking part in cycles on three separate routes on the day and was anxious to meet as many people as possible.

"Cycling is hugely popular at the moment, not just for serious sports people but for people from all walks of life and age groups who see it as an ideal leisure activity", said Kelly.

"I still love getting out on the bike and meeting people and I'm really looking forward to the Sligo event. The great thing about it for me is that I will be able to cycle with local enthusiasts and get a chance to meet people who have followed my career. That's the great thing about cycling. I suppose soccer fans will never get a chance to play with Roy Keane but an event like the An Post tour gives me an opportunity to meet my fans and cycle with them and I really like that whole idea", he added.

It was Kelly who initiated the idea of local cycle tours when he organised an event in Waterford three years ago. Over 1,000 cyclists turned out for the tour in its first year and about 3,000 are expected to take part this year.

Encouraged by the success of the Waterford cycle, Kelly was anxious to expand the idea nationwide. An Post came on board and Tours were organised in a number of areas around the country, including Sligo.

Last year's Tour in Sligo proved to be an outstanding success and the expectation is that even greater numbers will take part next month. "The great thing about the Tour is that it is designed to appeal to cyclists of all ability, with different distances on the three routes. It's really all about creating a family fun day and getting as many people as possible involved. I know that Sligo's Tour was a tremendous success last year and I am hoping there will be a great turnout again in May. I 'm really looking forward to going to Sligo and meeting as many people as possible on the tour", said Kelly.

For details on how to enter contact www.sligosportandrecreation.ie or phone 071 9161511