Teddies at the ready! Donegal gears up for the 20th staging of Sandra’s Run

Donegal is revving up for the annual Sandra’s Motorcycle Run which will see hundreds of motorcycles take to the roads of Donegal for three worthy causes.

Sandra’s Run is held in memory of Sandra Boyle, a Killybegs teenager who sadly died of leukaemia on the day before her 18th birthday in 1991.

In her all too short lifetime, Sandra touched many hearts. And the annual motorcycle run organised by her family honours her memory by continuing to help sick children from all over the country.

With around 400 bikes taking part, this event has grown phenomenally since the first group of bikers came together to raise funds in Sandra’s memory.

READ NEXT: In Pictures - 'Proud day for Killybegs' as Island House and new-look Diamond open

The event takes place on Saturday, July 5, starting and finishing in Killybegs. Registration is from 9.30am, with a start-time of 11.30am. 

A notable feature of Sandra’s Run is the display of soft toys on the bikes and along the route. The teddies and plushies symbolise all the children and young people undergoing medical treatment, including those no longer with us and those who have made a good recovery. 

Sandra’s sister Dianne on behalf of herself and her parents Jim and Rosaleen, took to social media to share why this year is extra special.

“It’s that special time of the year again when we get to announce this year's Sandra's Motorcycle Run in memory of our beautiful daughter and sister Sandra Marie Boyle, who is forever in our hearts and our daily thoughts. 

“And we have hit a milestone as this year's Run will be our 20th Sandra's Run. 

“We are looking forward to seeing you all. Those who have been with us for years. And we love to see new faces annually. 

“We are raising the funds this year for Temple Street Foundation with donations also towards both The Mater Foundation and Action Cancer.”

“We can't wait to see you all and safe driving until then.”

The route will see motorcyclists heading to Kilcar, then Carrick and to Ardara via Glengesh. There will be a stop at Maloney’s Texaco F94 XA6C for ice cream and petrol. 

From there, participants will take the N56 to Glenties, continue to Fairyglen and Derrybeg with lunch at F92 K2NF. Then it’s on to Bloody Foreland, returning via Magheraroarty, Gweedore, Crolly to stop at Top Oil, Dungloe. 

Finally, the bikers will return to Killybegs via Glenties and Ardara on N56, regrouping at Killybegs Bridge to ride into town. 

There will be a raffle and food in the Bay View Hotel, with dancing from 9pm with music by Minor Tones. The evening event is open to everyone.

Follow Donegallive.ie for coverage of news, sport and events across Donegal