Mizen to Malin press release

Neck spasm costs Jim Tuohy of North Tipperary Wheelers the chance of getting the outright record on the Mizen head (Co Cork) to Malin head (Co Donegal) route of 366 miles of hills and flats. Neck spasm is a common problem by cyclists doing the RAAM.

Big Jim’s bid was on course all the way until 100 miles to go mark when neck spasm causes Jim to stop 5 times in the last 100miles as he couldn’t keep his head up and see where he was going, his crew even made a neck brace using an umbrella but it was a case of too little to late, he still managed to soldier on and even with 10 miles to go at Malin village it was still visible that Jim might beat the 19hr mark that was set by Cycling Ireland as the time to beat for this first attempt at this route to be recognised.

Jim’s time of 19hrs and 17minutes is still the fastest time on record for cycling between the 2 head lands and is still the time to beat.

When Jim realised that the record was off he took his time to the finish even walking the last km with his wife and son which was very emotional for all the supporters and crew watching on.

Jim who is 55 and only took up cycling at the age of 39 showed great courage and determination in going for the record and showed us all what can be achieved by training.

Jim is a big leisure cyclist fan and has participated in many of Ireland’s big leisure sportif events over the years.

 He is also one of the first non racing cyclist to attempt a long distance bid like the Mizen to Malin route.

The Commasire for the bid Maurice Bann Lavery from Lurgan said “ he seen more grit, determination and heart from big Jim Tuohy than he has seen at many races over the years”

Padraig Marrey his coach was well proud of big Jim’s attempt and believes that he is well capable of breaking the record in the future.

Look out for another bid on the Mizen to Malin route, it could happen soon as Jim said he will go again in the not too distant future