Write a commentA County Antrim man taking part in yesterdays Charity Cycle ‘Ride on for Raff’ has died in hospital following his collapse near Newtownhamilton in the final quarter of the 55 mile circuit.
Francie Doone was manager of Glenavy GAA team St Joseph’s and had just last weekend seen his team win the Antrim Intermediate Football Championship Final.
Several hundred took part in three different events on the day all starting from Lissummon GAC to help raise funds for Friends of Cancer Centre and Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research NI. The 55 mile circuit took in Tandragee, Hamiltonsbawn, Markethill, Keady, Newtownhamilton and Camlough.
A spokesperson for the charity said “On behalf of the Ride On For RAFF memorial charity cycle, We would like to convey our sincere condolences to the family & friends of fellow cyclist Francis Doone of Glenavy who tragically collapsed & passed away in hospital this afternoon following our cycle. May he rest in peace.“
South Armgh councillor Barra O'Muiri also offered his condolences to the family "I want to extend my sympathies to the Doone family," he said.
"While I didn't know him I am assured by those who did that he was a real family man, a very civic minded person and a true Gael.
"Indeed his decision to travel to the area to take part in the wonderful Ride On For Raff memorial and charity cycle is a real indicator of the type of person he was.
"I'm sure that the organisers of Ride On For Raff and indeed everyone who took part in the event will join me in sending our sincere condolences to his family."
