Cork artist cycling 600km through every Munster county for Down Syndrome charity
I thought it would be nice to shaer this article that appeared in CorkBeo
Article in CorkBeo | 15:04, 14 JUL 2025
I thought it would be nice to shaer this article that appeared in CorkBeo
Cork artist cycling 600km through every Munster county for Down Syndrome charity
Aiming to raise €2,500 - inspired by young family friend Abigail
Art and Abigail (Image: Art van Leeuwen)
Next month Canadian-born artist Art van Leeuwen will be setting off from Cork and cycling through every county in Munster - but it's not for the scenery.
Art is embarking on the four-day journey with the Tour de Munster to raise money for charity org Down Syndrome Cork. 120 cyclists will be starting at English Market at 9am on Thursday, August 7 and will conclude their lengthy trip after cycling up to the top of Patrick's Hill - a tall order by itself, never mind after four days on the road.
But Art says the trip will be worth it as he raises cash for a charity close to his heart. He was inspired to hop on his bike by 18-year-old Abigail Curtin O’Connell, who has Down Syndrome as well as multiple heart defects.
Art, who rode his first Tour de Munster in 2013, explained: “I have seen first-hand how riding the Tour helps those living their lives with Down Syndrome.”
The charity provides educational programmes, therapies and employment opportunities for people with Down Syndrome. Last month the charity held a 100km cycling event at its Field of Dreams horticultural site in Curaheen.
Abigail's mother Catherine said: "Abigail this year is living the best life. Since the last Tour, cardiac wise she is not doing as well. We are on home on oxygen a bit and check-ups in Dublin are more frequent.
"She has done a work experience in local coffee shop, Corkbeg Coffee, and it was so emotional to see her working quite independently in the community. We've had lots of nights out to Opera House concerts this year, as we're packing in as much fun as we can."
A painting by Art of Bishop Lucey Park in Cork city centre (Image: Art van Leeuwen)
Art said he was "delighted" that Abigail's family were happy for him to cycle the 2025 Tour for her, and he hopes to raise €2,500 for the charity. You can donate to Art's fundraiser here.
Art explained that "100% of all funds raised will go to Down Syndrome Ireland and Down Syndrome Cork. All costs surrounding the training, riding the tour, accommodation, meals, gear and promotion are paid for by the artist."
The Tour de Munster is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, having raised over €5 million for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland since it was launched in 2001.
As well as being a keen cyclist, Art - aptly - is an artist, and has also decided has decided to release a collection of his recent work to the public, with 10% from sales going to Down Syndrome Cork.
Art explained: "I decided to do this sale because art engages people to react. Hopefully those reactions will result in support for this worthy cause."
You can visit Art's website here.
Comment by Maria17...
" An inspirational, well written article and testimony of one human's passionate quest to do everything they can to help another human in their time of need. Thank you, Art. Lovely art work too, talented painter you are. Have a safe, really great ride. Blessings to you, Art, Abigail, and to her family as well. Thank you Cork Beo for this bit of engaging journalism to make us aware of the Tour De Munster, and this fine example of this artist's uplifting endeavor."
You can donate directly to the campaign here
100% of all money raised will go to this cause
Art
Cork artist cycling 600km through every Munster county for Down Syndrome charity
I thought it would be nice to shaer this article that appeared in CorkBeo
