Cycling Ireland have launched a new ‘Ride With Pride’ campaign to kick off with Pride Month following the success of ‘pride rides’ during Bike Week 2023.
In partnership with several Local Sports Partnerships and LGBTQ+ organisations, several social group rides have been organised for members of the LGBTQ+ community around Ireland during the month of June.
The rides are free to attend, do not require registration and will offer an opportunity for those involved to meet other members of the LGBTQ+ community who are interested in cycling in a safe and social group ride.
The campaign aims to facilitate the establishment of LGBTQ+ rides on the Community Bike Rides programme, with these plans already in progress.
Another aim of the campaign is to help assist in the establishment of an LGBTQ+ community which Cycling Ireland hope can lead to the establishment of a LGBTQ+ club.
Rides have been confirmed in Waterford and Dublin cities, with more rides set to be added to the campaign upon confirmation.
“Cycling Ireland and the Get Ireland Cycling initiative are committed to being more diverse, inclusive and offering equal opportunities for all on the island of Ireland,” said Paul Norton, Cycling Ireland Get Ireland Cycling Officer.
“Over the last few months, I have been working alongside Sporting Pride and other LGBTQ+ organisations, as well as the LSPs, corporates and 3rd level institutions across the country, to bring together members of the LGBTQ+ community who want to meet likeminded people through the sport of cycling.”
“It is the aim of Cycling Ireland and Sporting Pride to establish groups in various locations around the country using our Community Bike Ride programme with a longer-term goal of establishing a nationwide CI affiliated club. To that end, we are looking for potential ride leaders to come forward or any members of the LGBTQ+ community to contact myself if they wish to be involved.”
“Sporting Pride is thrilled to be collaborating with Cycling Ireland to get the LGBTQ+ Community active,” added Alicia McConnell, Sporting Pride Community Group Liaison.
“They have really stepped up their commitment as an National Governing Body to making cycling accessible, inclusive and fun. There are numerous Pride rides happening in June, however, we look forward to establishing year-round activities to keep the community engaged, particularly with the improved infrastructure to be able to cycle safely and to enjoy the beautiful Island.”
Sport for Business Perspective
Similar initiatives have been very successful in Britain, the US and even in Albania, pictured above, so there is every chance of this being likewise.
Watch out for a special Podcast Series looking at how Sport and Business are making a difference for the LGBTQ+ community in the run up to the Dublin Pride march.
