In each episode of Defying The Odds, we meet cyclists who\u2019ve achieved exceptional things in the face of adversity. It\u2019s a celebration of their spirit, and of the sport \u2013 and a reminder of just what can be done in the saddle.<\/p>\n
Our latest guest is Cormac Ryan, who was just 19 years old \u2013 and five months away from an All-Ireland minor hurling final \u2013 when he was told he needed a pacemaker and could no longer play contact sport. On top of that, the time off the field triggered the beginning of an eating disorder; yet another challenge to overcome.<\/p>\n
He\u2019s now a mental health advocate and the founder of the Cycle For Life charity, which has raised tens of thousands of euros for medical and mental health services. Midway through his latest adventure, a daunting 6,000km ride from Achill to Athens in support of Pieta House and Bodywhys, Cormac tells host Declan Quigley about the trials and tribulations that he\u2019s faced \u2013 and the perspective he\u2019s gained as he pedals into the future.<\/p>\n