If you've got buns of iron, then you've the requirements for this year's Iron Butt Motorcycle Rally. Supported by VW, the Iron Butt Association of Ireland (IBAI) is holding its annual long-distance event on June 19th - 21st, where riders travel 1,000 kms or miles within 24 hours. Patricia Weston reports.
"This year's 1,000 km route begins in Banagher, Co Offaly and ends in Dublin. If your butt is made of iron you can complete the 1,000-mile route by continuing on from Dublin to Galway, Kerry, Northern Ireland and finally back to Banagher," says Paul Curran, IBAI chairman.
Entry cost is €150 with a minimum sponsorship of €65. The rally began here in 2000, and all events are for charity. It has raised funds for St Vincent de Paul, Temple Street Children's Hospital and Chernobyl. This year's event is aims to raise enough money to purchase a vehicle for The Arrupe Society for homeless boys in Dublin, founded by Fr Peter McVerry.
"Transport is vital for the work we do, the Arrupe Society couldn't survive without transport. When the kids are travelling they seem to become more relaxed and open, it creates an informal atmosphere," says Fr McVerry.
"It is not a race. Riders are penalised if they finish more then five minutes ahead of the 24 hours," says IBAI secretary John Wheeler. "Riding at an average speed of 44 miles per hour for 15 hours, you can take an eight-hour rest and small fuel breaks in-between," he adds. Details at www.ibai.ie or tel: 01-2940487.