Mizen2Malin Cyclist - Hazel O'Carroll

A charity very close to my heart

The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is extremely close to my heart as my Granny lost her sight and with that her independence. Their support network allowed us as a family to return a level of independence to my Granny and, while she was offered a Guide Dog, she ultimately didn't want to upset her trusty jack russell.

I have been involved with the 99er's for a number of years starting out as a support crew member, marshalling the cyclists and guiding them along the Wild Atlantic Way and assisting Eamonn Linnane in any way I could.

A few years ago I swapped duties and became a cycling support crew member and have completed 2 two incredible journeys from Mizen to Malin.

This event is like no other and we meet people along the way who are so willing to support us and generously share their stories with us and how the charity has helped them and their families.

By participating in this event I can directly see the impact our hard work has and how #changinglives is really achieved through the partnership of the 99ers and the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

I'm not sure you could ask for a better or more inclusive cycling event. In 2024, we have visually impaired cyclists and cyclists aged 20-80 joining the group. The scenery is stunning, the support is immense and the people you cycle with will become lifelong friends.

When you finally reach Malin Head you will feel like you have conquered the world and be asking .... "When is the sign up sheet open for next year?".

Find out more about Mizen2Malin on our Events page