Two dedicated local cyclists have completed an epic two-day endurance ride across Northern Ireland to mark the 200th anniversary of the RNLI lifeboat station in Newcastle, visiting every RNLI station in the province as a heartfelt tribute to the lifesaving charity.
Newcastle native Adrian Cunningham and Eugene Carville, who is originally from Ballynahinch but has been living in Newcastle for over 40 years, left the Portaferry Lifeboat Station at 4.30am on Saturday (21 June). The pair took on a punishing schedule designed to test both body and spirit.
Day one saw them charting a northern coastal route, stopping at Donaghadee, Bangor, and Larne (via Belfast) before continuing through Cushendall, climbing over the Glens to Portrush, and finishing the day in Omagh. This leg covered an incredible 183 miles with just under 8,000 feet of elevation gain.
The second day brought no less of a challenge, with 132 miles and over 6,000 feet of climbing, as the cyclists pushed through County Fermanagh’s two lifeboat stations, then swept east across the province to Kilkeel, before reaching their final destination: the Newcastle Lifeboat Station.
There, Eugene and Adrian, who are both members of local cycling club Shimna Wheelers, were warmly greeted by RNLI crew members and supporters, complete with refreshments to mark the occasion. The ride was not just a test of endurance but a moving tribute to two centuries of RNLI courage, commitment, and community spirit.
“We did this to honour those who risk their lives at sea to keep others safe,” Adrian reflected. “It was a tough couple of days, but finishing in Newcastle and seeing the warm welcome from the crew made it all worthwhile.”
Their feat stands as both a celebration of the RNLI’s heritage and a testament to the determination and gratitude of those inspired by its mission.
To help support the lifeboat crew, whether it be a donation or volunteer work in Newcastle, please visit their Facebook page.
