Cycle in memory of Omagh teacher raises thousands

A FUNDRAISING event in memory of an inspirational Omagh teacher who died last year has raised £2,456 for motor neurone disease (MND).

Christopher McConnell was an integral member of staff at the Drumagh Integrated College since 2000, and during his time at the school developed a reputation as a friendly, hard-working teacher who took a sincere interest in the education and wellbeing of his pupils.

Earlier this year, his family and friends decided to honour his legacy by organising fundraising activities to combat MND and raise awareness around the illness.

One of these events took place over September, when 19 keen cyclists took on the task of cycling 200 miles through the month.

The challenge was organised under the auspices of Tyrone’s branch of the AXA Community Bike Rides and was led by Joan Potts, a member of Omagh Wheelers.

Joan is a lifelong cycling enthusiast and worked with Christopher for many years at Drumragh College.

Speaking to the UH, Joan said, “We exceeded our target and completed a combined a total of 5,335 miles – congratulations to all cyclists who took part, they really stepped up to this challenge!

“Although charity was the primary focus of this challenge, a healthy dose of competition employed to provide a little additional motivation.

“In gold medal position with 618 miles completed was Maura Alexander, closely followed by silver medallist Barry Horsfield with 540 miles,” said Joan.

“All other cyclists received bronze medals for a fantastic effort in completing over 200 miles.”

Joan extended a heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported and donated to the event, remarking that the number of people who contributed came as no surprise in light of Christopher’s reputation as humble, dignified and truly decent man.

If you would like to meet new people and connect with the community while enjoying all the benefits cycling, visit axacommunitybikerides.com.

The next fundraiser in memory of Christoher and in service of ‘Drumragh Together for MND’ will be a spinathon and 5k walk at Drumragh College this Sunday (October 17).

Details of this can be found on the Drumragh Integrated College social media sites.