Tour de Force Charity Cycle 2025

Budapest to Slovenia

This 600km challenge takes riders from Budapest through scenic lakeside towns and rolling countryside into the heart of Slovenia—all in support of the Marie Keating Foundation.

€10,000 minimum will go to The Alzheimer Society of Ireland 

• Distance & Endurance: Riders commit to long days in the saddle, averaging over 100km per day as they traverse diverse landscapes over five days.

• Terrain Shifts: The journey begins in vibrant Budapest, transitions along the peaceful shores of Balatonkenese and the quaint village of Nagyrécse, then crosses into Slovenia. Cyclists will experience urban roads, scenic rural backdrops, and finally, the exhilarating mountain climbs that lead to the finish in the alpine setting near Lake Bled.

• Weather Challenges: From warm, sunlit afternoons to unexpected showers and cool, crisp mornings, the varied weather conditions demand adaptability and persistence.

• Mental Strength: Every kilometer is a test of resolve. Cyclists push through physical fatigue with strong team support and a shared sense of purpose, fully embracing the challenge and making a meaningful impact along the way.

The Marie Keating Foundation

The Marie Keating Foundation is dedicated to making cancer less frightening by enlightening. As one of Ireland’s leading charities in cancer awareness, prevention, and support, the Foundation provides vital education, early detection resources, and assistance to those living with and beyond cancer. Every donation helps ensure that individuals and families receive the guidance and care they need at every stage of their journey.

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Every pedal stroke makes a difference

My name is Mary Maher, and for the past ten years, I’ve had the privilege of being involved with Tour de Force, a charity run on a volunteer basis by retired and serving members of An Garda Siochana and friends.

Tour de Force is more than just a cycling event, it’s a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and generosity. Year after year, this family pushes its limits, welcomes new members, and stays united by a shared mission. With every pedal stroke, we know we are making a real difference.

I am honoured to be part of this incredible journey and thrilled to ride again in September 2025, taking on a 600km route from Budapest to Slovenia over 5 days, all while raising funds for the Marie Keating Foundation and Alzheimer’s Ireland.

Mary on her bike during Tour De Force Charity Cycle 2024 (Ronda)

The Tour de Force charity cycle kicks off on September 23, 2025.

Over five days, we’ll cycle from Budapest to Slovenia, covering 600 km through lakeside towns, rolling countryside, and alpine terrain. We finish at one of Europe’s most stunning natural landmarks—Lake Bled—while raising funds and awareness for a meaningful cause.

Day 1: Budapest → Balatonkenese
We begin our ride in Budapest, heading southwest toward Lake Balaton. Our destination is Balatonkenese, a peaceful lakeside town that offers scenic views and a calm, welcoming atmosphere—perfect for our first stop.

Day 2: Balatonkenese → Nagyrécse
Our second day takes us past vineyards and through small towns along the southern edge of the lake. We finish in the quiet village of Nagyrécse, nestled in the rural heart of Hungary.

Day 3: Nagyrécse → Gorišnica (Slovenia)
Crossing into Slovenia, we ride through the picturesque Drava River valley to reach Gorišnica, a charming village surrounded by farmland and gently rolling hills.

Day 4: Gorišnica → Čeplje
Today’s route leads us deeper into central Slovenia. We pass through Celje, a historic town known for its medieval castle, and end the day in Čeplje, a tranquil area near the mountains.

Day 5: Čeplje → Lake Bled
On our final day, we cycle northwest toward the Julian Alps, climbing steadily as we approach our destination. The journey ends at the iconic Lake Bled, renowned for its island church, cliffside castle, and crystal-clear waters—a truly breathtaking conclusion to the ride.

€1.5 million and counting

The Tour de Force was born in 1995, since then we've organized annual charity cycles.

With the generosity of donors across Ireland, we continue riding for change.
Over the years, we have raised and donated nearly €1.5 million to support charities including Aware, Alone, Childline, EB, Headway, Jack and Jill, The Haiti Foundation, The Irish Cancer Association, The Marie Keating Foundation, and Motor Neurone, among many others.

While fundraising has become more challenging, our dedicated cyclists return year after year, proving we are doing something right.

We are truly grateful for the ongoing support that makes this mission possible.