The two sisters will cycle non stop 320km around the perimter of the county

Two proud aunties are taking on the challenge of cycling 320km non stop around the perimeter of the county next Friday July 31st to raise funds for Crumlin’s Children’s Hospital in honour of their nephew who has battled a life line health condition.

Fourteen-year-old Peadar Bird from Trim was born with Talipes or Clubfoot as it is more commonly known and has undergone a number of operations throughout the years in Crumlin.

His two aunts Siobhan and Eliz Payne say they wanted to do something ‘to pay tribute’ to the youngster’s bravery through the years and to give back to the hospital that he has attended since he was a baby.

Speaking about their cherished nephew Siobhan who last year took part in the Race Around Ireland said:

“My sister Eliz and I are embarking on another adventure. This time we are doing Tour De County a challenge set up by Crumlin Children’s Hospital to raise much needed funds through these tough times.

“We are doing approx 320km and it will take us around fourteen hours.

“Our inspiration for this is our amazing nephew Peadar. He has attended Crumlin from a baby.

“He was born with Talipes, has had many operations but nothing has ever phased him.

“Since the day he could walk nothing ever stops him, all he wants to do is play sport.

“He is just an amazing young man and never complains and never gives up.

“His mum and dad Theresa and Turlough, his sister Moya and brothers Conall and Tadgh are all very proud of him.”

The teenager, a student of Boyne Community School plays GAA with Boardsmill and Rugby with Navan RFC.

This year he was awarded U14 Player of the year. Speaking on why he deserved the award head coach Brian Sheridan said:

“This young man has demonstrated true spirit, grit and determination this season and truly deserved this recognition of his skill and effort in the 2019/2020 season.

“He is a joy to coach and nothing is to great of a challenge for this young man. Thank you for your service this year Peader, you were fantastic and we look forward to watching you whipping the forwards into action in the coming season.”

Siobhan explains why doing this ardous challenge is so important:

“He is our own little hero and is capable of so much. This is without doubt due to his unfathomable spirit and tenacity but also to the care he receives from the staff in Crumlin.

“So many young children from Meath have passed through its doors.

"So to give a little back we take on this challenge.”