Three of Northern Ireland’s best-known radio voices are swapping the studio for the saddle this September and embarking on their toughest fundraising challenge to date – cycling 800 miles from Paris to Banbridge in support of Cash for Kids.
For Cool FM Breakfast presenter Rebecca McKinney, the journey carries an even deeper personal meaning.
Her father, who sadly passed away six months ago, was hugely enthusiastic about all sports, including cycling, and she is determined to complete every mile in his memory.
“This challenge is about so much more than cycling,” she said. “Dad was passionate about all sports and always encouraged us to push ourselves outside our comfort zone, so I know he’ll be with me every pedal stroke of the way. If completing this ride helps make life a little easier for children and families who need support, then every hill, every ache and every mile will be worth it.”
Rebecca will be joined by fellow Cool FM Breakfast presenters Pete Snodden and Paulo Ross, with the trio spending six days cycling through France, England and Scotland before crossing the Irish Sea to finish in Banbridge, right at the heart of the communities the charity supports.
The goal is to raise over £100k for Cash for Kids, Bauer Media’s official charity, helping children and young people across Northern Ireland who are affected by poverty, illness, disability, additional needs or other difficult circumstances. Through grants, fundraising campaigns and community support, Cash for Kids helps provide essential items, life-changing equipment, experiences and opportunities that can make a lasting difference to local families.
The challenge is being powered by Omexom UK & RoI, part of the global energy infrastructure organisation Omexom, with additional kit and equipment support provided by Decathlon.
The Cool FM trio aren’t averse to pushing themselves to their limits for a good cause. Four years ago, they successfully paddle-boarded across the Irish Sea, and in 2024 they trekked to the top of Slieve Donard, broadcasting throughout the ascent.
But this latest adventure promises to be their biggest test yet.
The cycling challenge was inspired by fitness enthusiast Paulo Ross, who recently completed an Ironman in Austria, and wanted to push the trio to their limits.
For Pete and Rebecca, it’s a different story. While neither would describe themselves as cyclists, both have embraced the challenge, committing to Paulo’s rigorous training programme which includes spin classes, static bike sessions and increasingly demanding road rides.
Adding another layer of complexity, the presenters won’t be taking a break from their day jobs. Throughout the six-day challenge they will continue to broadcast live each breakfast time, bringing listeners with them on their journey.
The partnership with Omexom adds another spark to this year’s campaign. A valued partner of Cash for Kids, the company has already shown strong support for the charity’s work and its mission to make a real difference to local families.
Steve Mosley, Head of Communications at Omexom UK & Ireland, says, “At Omexom, we’re proud to support organisations that make a genuine difference in the communities where we live and work, and Cash for Kids is a charity that has been changing young lives across Northern Ireland for many years. We’ve supported its incredible work through initiatives such as Mission Christmas, so we’re delighted to be powering Pete, Paulo and Rebecca’s biggest fundraising challenge yet. Taking on almost 800 miles while continuing to broadcast live each morning is an extraordinary commitment, and we hope their determination inspires businesses and the public alike to get behind the campaign. Every donation will help ensure more local children and young people receive the support they need, when they need it most.”
Attending the launch at Cool FM’s headquarters in City Quays were two remarkable young people whose lives have been transformed through support from Cash for Kids.
Zac Cooper, 15, who has additional needs and requires 24/7 care, has benefited from Cash for Kids grants for the last five years, while Alex Chambers, 4, who suffered a severe brain haemorrhage when she was 18 months old, has received vital support to help her overcome extraordinary challenges.
Their stories are powerful reminders that every pound raised stays local and helps children and young people across Northern Ireland when they need it most.
To kick-start fundraising, businesses are invited to take part in a silent auction to sponsor different parts of the presenters’ bodies – from quads to knees and even their saddle-sore rear-ends!
As a father of two girls, Pete is more than ready to gear up for this great cause: “This isn’t simply a cycling challenge; it’s a true team effort involving our support squad, our listeners and the businesses who are backing us all the way. It’s 800 miles of determination, community spirit and pedal power, all with one goal – giving local children and young people the brighter future they deserve.”
Cash for Kids is encouraging schools and businesses to help fundraise by taking on their own virtual challenge and cycling part of the journey with Pete, Paulo and Rebecca. More details and fundraising ideas are available via ni@cashforkids.org.uk.