Paddy Pedals Across Belarus

A Swords rugby player has just returned from the charity trip of a lifetime - and is already preparing for his next journey. Paddy Jones travelled to Belarus for a week-long cycle in aid of the ‘Bike 2 Belarus' organisation earlier this summer, along with 33 students and lecturers from his DIT college and Ulster University.

Described as a ‘humanitarian adventure in post-Chernobyl Belarus', last year's trip helped raise E10,000 for the UNDP Belarus Support Programme, which assisted the Core organisation. This in turn supported the integration of local community initiatives aimed at Chernobyl recovery efforts with international expertise. And it's an adventure that will live long in the memory.

‘It was savage, absolutely brilliant,' Paddy reflected. ‘We arrived in Minsk and travelled to an adult orphanage. ‘It was special needs, with kids as young as 12, up to people in their 70s. We were building ramps, setting up paths and clearing areas. ‘We were there for two days, before we cycled on to the next orphanage. In total, we cycled 150 km.'

On the last day of their journey, the group arrived at a children's orphanage, again where the residents had special needs. It's an experience Paddy will never forget. ‘It was heartbreaking,' the Balheary native added. ‘The orphanage was great, but for example, they only had three nappies per child, per week, because of the lack of funding.

‘We brought presents over for the kids. The next project is to raise E30,000. The organisation bought a house beside the orphanage, and they're going to do it up, so that they can be self sustained when they're older.' With his studies set to resume and the rugby season underway again at ALSAA, Paddy is already looking ahead to another busy year.

‘I'm doing it again next year. I'd easily recommend it to anyone. I'm planning on going over in October or November, but we'll see how it goes.
‘I'd like to thank all my family and friends and all those who supported me, especially my main sponsors, the Carlton Hotel, Jones' Garden Centre, JC's Shopping Centre, Rebel Pizza, the Carnegie Court Hotel and Kettle's Country House.'

Anyone interested in supporting the charity can visit www.bike2belarus.com.