The family and friends of a beloved “community champion” from Northern Ireland who died earlier this year will attempt a mammoth charity cycle in his memory.
Brian Magennis from Poyntzpass passed away on January 16 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
His family and friends are preparing to honour him by attempting the “Bike for Brian” challenge – a 750-mile journey through across the 32 counties of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in six days.
The group of 12 cyclists have set up a Just Giving page to raise money for Evora Hospice, who looked after Magennis in his final weeks.
FAMILY HANDOUT
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Magennis’ sons, Ben and Daniel, joined by Marty Johnston, one of Brian’s closest friends
Magennis’ 20-year-old son, Daniel, said: “Dad was the definition of a fighter…He faced everything with bravery and dignity.
“When the illness came back, he fought to stay with us for as long as he could.
“When he passed, we knew we wanted to do something in his name – something that would carry his spirit forward.”
The challenge will begin on August 17 and conclude on August 23.
Over the duration of the cycle, the team of Magennis’ close-knit group of friends and family are set to climb an elevation of more than 30,000 feet – higher than Mount Everest.
Magennis’ other son, Ben, 18, will be helping the group every step of the way and travelling in the logistics van alongside the cyclists.
Isabel, cousin to Ben and Daniel, will be spearheading the fundraiser’s social media drive to keep those following the challenge up-to-date.
Ben said: “This is our way of saying thank you – to the hospice that looked after him with such care, and to Dad, for the life and love he gave us.”
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Magennis was surrounded by his family when he died weeks after their final Christmas together.
Ben recalled: “We all held his hand that morning… It was one of the hardest moments of our lives – but also a privilege.
“He gave us everything. The least we can do now is give something back in his name.”
Daniel said: “I still expect to see him sometimes – his head just visible through the window from his favourite chair as I drive up to the house.
“We hope to raise vital funds for the hospice and honour one of the best men we’ve ever known.”
FAMILY HANDOUT
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Magennis’ wife, Margaret (pictured) will be there alongside the cyclists to support them as they complete the challenging cycle.
Marty Johnston, Magennis’ brother-in-law and one the main organisers of Bike for Brian, said: “Brian was more than a brother-in-law – he was a great friend.
“This cycle isn’t just about covering miles – it’s about honouring a man who meant the world to us and giving something back to the hospice that gave us so much when we needed it most.”
Magennis’ wife, Margaret, will be there alongside the cyclists to support them as they complete the challenging bike ride.