Cyclist (6) aims to complete 250km before he turns 7

Áinle Smith got a new bike a few weeks ago, and during the Covid-19 lockdown, he has cycled almost every day. There's nothing unusual in that part of the story, however from there on there's a bit of plot twist.

Áinle father, James Smith, originally from Laragh, explained: “Áinle recently learned to cycle. During the COVID crisis cycled almost every day. Áinle's so delighted with himself that he decided to set a Cycling Challenge. He turns seven on July 22 and he has decided to cycle 250km whilst he is still six.”

The Mullingar lad was prenatally diagnosed with a serious heart condition which required continuous monitoring by the paediatric healthcare team in the Coombe and Crumlin hospitals.

He needed life saving heart surgery at five days old and requires ongoing check-ups.

In a time of significant distress for his family, they found the healthcare team looked after them, as a family, and Áinle as a patient.

“We will forever be indebted to the dedication, support and professionalism shown to us throughout this difficult period,” James outlined.

“Áinle is under the care of Dr Orla Franklin, who is a wonderful example of what this country does right.”

James said that Áinle lives an active life. He attends Gaelscoil an Mhuilinn and is currently in Naoináin Mhora.

Many of his school friends have volunteered to accompany him on part of his challenge (once restrictions permit).

He loves playing hurling with Oliver Plunketts, football for Shamrocks and now he has found another hobby in cycling.

“We feel in this time of unprecedented difficulty for every person in the country, we should give a little back to say thank-you,” said Deirdre, Áinle’s mother.

Áinle’s initial goal was to raise €1,600, which was surpassed within hours; new targets have since been set and broken and the current target is €5,000 .

Support has come from far and wide, including significant donations from Westmeath, Cavan, Dublin, Kerry, the UK, the US, the Middle East and Australia.

James said: “It’s truly amazing how the Irish people’s generosity knows no bounds."

“Even now, in times when people have significant financials concerns, they will support a little boy saying thank you in such a fantastic manner,” Deirdre added.

Áinle’s completed the first stage of his challenge on Sunday (June 7) – 25km.

“We don’t intend to cycle quite that far every day but the excitement of the day got to him,” said James.

His charity page can be found here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bikingboy.