Tandem cyclists raise over 10k for Irish Red Cross

Garda Kieran Shields and teacher David O’Reilly stopped in Mullingar last week as they cycled 600km across Ireland on a tandem bike, all in aid of the Irish Red Cross!

Cycling from West to East and back again, supporters turned up along the way to cheer them on including Katie Murtagh from Mullingar, who is a cousin of Gda Shields.

The pair began their journey in Clonbur, County Galway on September 21, before making their way around Lough Mask and on into Mayo, Meath, Westmeath, Kildare, Offaly, Galway and back to Gortmore in Mayo on Saturday last, September 26.

Kieran and David have been friends for more than 40 years, and originally hail from Bishopstown in Cork. Kieran is now stationed in Carlow, and Dave is music teacher in Mayo.

The pair decided to get on their bike for the Irish Red Cross to support the good work the organisation does both at home and abroad.

"The Irish Red Cross members volunteered at a recent drowning tragedy in Mayo that spurred the boys on to help raise funds for search and rescue equipment for the community," explains Katie Murtagh.

"They tried to take in as many towns and villages as possible along the route, and their good nature and sense of fun was palpable, and earned them random donations from locals in towns and villages right across Ireland," she continues.

"The generosity of people in the current climate has astounded the boys, from free grub to free accommodation and good banter! One hundred percent of donations raised goes straight to the Irish Red Cross."

The tandem cyclists surpassed their initial target of €10,000, and so far have raised a staggering €10,206. If you would like to donate go to