The Sperrin Bikers RC is deeply honored to announce their annual charity bike run dedicated to the memory of Aidan Clarkin, a passionate motorcyclist whose love for biking touched the lives of many. Tragically, Aidy lost his life in a collision on the Lisnamuck Road in Tobermore on May 4th, 2023. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, May 25, 2025, and aims to celebrate his legacy while raising funds for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.
Aidan, affectionately known as “Aidy” by family and friends, was not just a motorcycle enthusiast; he embodied the spirit of camaraderie, adventure, and the joy of riding. A spokesperson from Sperrin Bikers RC said “Our club stands united in honouring Aidy’s incredible legacy through our shared passion for biking. As the Sperrin Bikers, we are not just a community; we are a family, and Aidy was a major part of that. His spirit continues to inspire us every day. Together, we ride in memory of Aidy, cherishing the love and passion for biking that he instilled in each of us.” – Sperrin Bikers RC Club
The charity bike run will begin at Main Street in Draperstown, outside The Market Inn, and will wind through the picturesque countryside, including Tobermore, Glenshane Pass, Ballymena, up to as far as Ballycastle, before the bike run finishes up back at The Market Inn, for tea/coffee/light refreshments and a prize draw. Participants are asked to contribute £10 per bike and £5 per pillion, with marshals guiding riders along the route. Riders are encouraged to ensure their bikes are fuelled and ready before departure.
This memorial run serves not only as a tribute to Aidy’s adventurous spirit but also highlights the importance of community and support within the biking world. Over the past two years, the Sperrin Bikers RC has raised an incredible £10,063 for Air Ambulance NI, showcasing the club’s commitment to this vital service that provides life-saving care throughout Northern Ireland.
Katrina Hughes, Area Fundraising Manager at Air Ambulance NI, expressed her appreciation for the ongoing support, stating, “Every penny raised is crucial to the continuation of our service. We are incredibly grateful to the Sperrin Bikers for their dedication and passion over the years. We encourage everyone to join us for this special event and support this worthy cause.”
The charity Air Ambulance NI, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, provides the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service for Northern Ireland. The service brings urgent medical assistance attending to patients who are seriously ill or injured, bringing emergency pre-hospital care direct to the casualty with the aim of saving lives, brains and limbs. Air Ambulance operates seven days a week for 12 hours per day. The aircraft can reach anywhere in Northern Ireland in approximately twenty-five minutes. On average, the doctor and paramedic team are tasked twice a day whether that is as a result of a serious road traffic collision, farm or workplace accident, sport and leisure incident or a serious medical emergency, to name a few.
The Sperrin Bikers RC invite bikers and community members to participate in this memorial ride, whether as riders or supporters, to honour Aidy Clarkin’s legacy and celebrate his love for motorbiking.