The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle in association with Radio Kerry is delighted to announce a partnership with SKODA for 2013. Now in its 30th year, the charity cycle will take place on Saturday, July 6th.

The SKODA name is well-known for its links to cycling both here in Ireland and internationally and following on from the success of the Tou de Connemara, which SKODA also spnsored, they are now throwing their supports behind this unique event in the Kingdom. The event is the biggest one day charity fundraising event in Ireland, attracting thousands of leisure cyclists who will experience a fun and rewarding day's cycling, completing 180 KM of the spectacular Ring of Kerry, while at the same time fundraising for worthy Kerry based charities.

Each year, various local charities benefit from the proceeds raised and this year the following Kerry charities will benefit from this special event; Cúnamh Iveragh Residential Project for Special Needs; Down Syndrome Ireland; Kerry Mountain Rescue Team; Kerry Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre; Pieta House Suicide Crisis Centre; Recovery Haven Cancer Support House; Kerry Lifeline at Southwest Counselling Centre and The Irish Society for Autism.

Commenting on the partnership, Cathal Walshe, PRO of the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle said "The main purpose of the Ring of Kerry Charity cycle is to raise much needed funds for deserving charities in these tough economic times and to make the most of the beautiful landscape in Kerry and stage an event that will attract cyclists from all over the country".

Also speaking at the announcement of the sponsorship, Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing, SKODA Ireland said "We are absolutely delighted to get involved with the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle. It is a huge event in the national cycling calendar with a great sense of community at the foundations of its success. SKODA has long standing connections with cycling, the company itself originating over 100-years ago when SKODA first started manufacturing bicycles. Worldwide, ŠKODA is sponsor of the world's largest cycling race the Tour de France so it is only fitting that SKODA can support Ireland's largest cycling one day event".

The event has grown significantly in size since the first cycle in 1983 with over 8,500 participants taking part last year. Since the cycle began, over 5.7 million euro has been raised for various charities.