HERE’S a noble effort worth some of your hard-earned cash. Haras de Meautry manager Nick Bell is raising money for Down Syndrome Kerry by completing the Ring of Kerry cycle challenge next month. Bell manages the historic stud near Calvados, in Normandy for Baron Edouard de Rothschild and has strong connections with Ireland having lived here for some time.

He explains: “Following a diagnosis of prostate cancer and chronic pulmonary sarcoidosis this year, I decided to take up cycling to combat the side effects of the heavy levels of cortisone used as a treatment. My goal is to take part in the Ring of Kerry cycle ride which passes near my house in Ireland among the beautiful lakes and mountains of Co Kerry.

Moll’s Gap

“Unfortunately due to Covid, the ride will not take place in Kerry in 2021 but I will be attempting to ride the 170km at the end of June in France. Hopefully we will all back to normal for 2022, where I plan to be fit enough to tackle the ascent to Moll’s Gap (not easy on 50% lung capacity).

“I’ve chosen to fundraise for Down Syndrome Kerry. All funds raised here will go directly to this great cause. I decided to support Down Syndrome Kerry, as it cares for individuals with a condition that has been slightly forgotten in these Covid times. They’re such charming, intelligent people and through no fault of their own they’re missing out on a lot of things, so I wanted to help them.

“I hope you can help me by donating whatever you can through the Donate link below. Many thanks for your support.”

Web: Search idonate.ie for ‘Nick Bell’ and YouTube.com for ‘Ring of Kerry Challenge’