Mayo Garda prepares for charity cycle
Close-up bike tire.
Claremorris Community Garda John Monaghan is preparing to take on a 340-kilometre charity cycle in memory of Saoirse Duggan, the young Claremorris girl who passed away in June 2025 following illness.
The fundraiser, titled 'Saoirse’s Sunshine Cycle', will take place on June 20th as part of the international 'Chase The Sun' endurance event. Garda Monaghan will begin the challenge at sunrise in Belfast at 4.45am and hopes to complete the journey to Enniscrone before sunset later that evening.
Funds raised through the cycle will go to the Little Blue Heroes Foundation, a charity supporting families of children living with serious illnesses throughout Ireland. Saoirse was an Honorary Garda with the organisation and Garda Monaghan described her as his “little blue buddy”.
Founded in 2017, the Little Blue Heroes Foundation is led by serving and retired Garda members along with volunteers from communities around the country. The charity provides practical and financial assistance to families while also giving children the opportunity to become Honorary Gardaí.
Support has continued to build locally ahead of the challenge, with St Colman’s College wishing Garda Monaghan well and encouraging people to support the fundraiser. The school described him as a valued friend who regularly visits students to offer guidance and support.
Donations can be made online through the iDonate page for 'John’s Cycle for Saoirse'.
