Donegal brothers set to cycle 640km for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland

Two brothers from Donegal are among 37 cyclists taking on the Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF challenge.

Carndonagh’s Robin and Raphael O’Doherty will make the 640km journey from Malin Head to Mizen Head to raise awareness and funds for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland.

The cycle starts in Malin Head on Thursday, September 10, and will take four days to cover 640 kilometres to Mizen Head, which the group aims to reach on Sunday, September 13.

Robin first took part in the M2M Cycle4CF in 2025 and Raphael is joining him for the 2026 challenge.

“I’m taking on the M2M Cycle challenge for the second year in a row in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, covering the length of the country with a fantastic group of cyclists,” Robin said. “It’s a tough but incredibly rewarding experience, made even more so by the opportunity to raise funds and awareness for a cause that impacts so many families across the country. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported and donated along the way.”

Raphael added, “I’m looking forward to cycling from Malin to Mizen Head this year. Thanks to everyone who donated for such a worthy cause – see you all at the finish line. Hopefully it’s all downhill from here!”

According to the latest data from the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland (CFRI), there are 1,342 people with CF in Ireland. Despite new therapies which have improved outcomes for Cystic Fibrosis, a cure has still not been found.

The first cycle was set up in memory of Triona Priestley, who passed away in 2014 from CF when she was just 15 years old. It began with just four cyclists and hit a record of 50 cyclists in 2025.

Over €1,200,000 has been raised since the cycle started in 2016, helping CFI fund research and advocacy for families affected by the condition in Ireland. This year the cycle has a fundraising target of €100,000 and according to the charity, the success of this event is only possible when a community come together.

“We are so grateful for every cyclist, volunteer and donor who has supported CFI,” Sarah Tecklenborg, CEO of CFI, said. “A massive thanks to our sponsors who year on year welcome us to their locations as we pass through for safety checks, refuelling and pit stops. This support has helped us achieve so much change for people with CF.

“CF is a complex and challenging condition. While highly effective modulator therapies have improved outcomes and quality of life for many, we still have no cure. Concerns are growing around long-term health issues such as cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, increased cancer risk, and the impact of ageing with CF. As life expectancy improves, research must keep pace with the evolving needs of the CF community, and continued support is needed to fund this vital work and help us find a cure.”

Organisers and participants are encouraging people to come out and show their support as it passes through Donegal. This year's sponsors include Drumkeen Service Station, Spar Muff and Spar Express Laghey, and the public are invited to come and meet the cyclists at these locations on September 10.

Members of the public can also donate or find out more about the services and supports CFI provide, here.