THE Road to Lisbon Cycle was a stunning, supporter-led initiative and we celebrated the achievements of the group during the half-time interval on Saturday at Celtic Park, as they made a magnificent donation to Celtic FC Foundation.

A journey totalling 1,300 miles, crossing four countries and spanning 14 days, the momentous cycle proudly ended on May 25, 2017 – 50 years to the day since our European Cup triumph – on the hallowed site of the Estadio Nacional.

Honouring the 50th anniversary of the 1967 European Cup victory, the event, led by supporter Paul Muldoon, raised funds for three charities close to the hearts of participants – Celtic FC Foundation, Irish charity Children in Crossfire and Solving Kids Cancer.

Thanks to the outstanding physical and emotional efforts of the group and the generous donations they received from across the globe from those keen to support the charitable spirit of the challenge, an incredible total of £73,616.68 was raised.

Most of the outstanding Bhoys and Ghirls involved took a well-deserved bow in front of a capacity crowd at Paradise on Saturday and officially presented a donation of £24,538.89 to Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton.

Paul Muldoon said: “It was an amazing achievement by the team. Some were completely new to cycling but they met the challenge head on and gave up a lot of weekends, as well as time away from their families, to support this vision of honouring the Lisbon Lions.

“I’m so grateful to the Celtic Family and I get quite emotional thinking about it. Nothing surprises me when it comes to their generosity.”

Tony Hamilton added: “This was a truly outstanding and remarkable achievement and a beautifully fitting tribute to our cherished Lisbon Lions.

“The total raised was awe-inspiring and we are so thankful to have been selected as one of the three very fortunate beneficiaries.

“This magnificent donation will make a huge difference to our work with disadvantaged children, young people and adults, honouring the charitable principles of our founding fathers and the historic achievement of the Lisbon Lions.

“We at Celtic FC Foundation are truly grateful for the efforts of Paul Muldoon and the rest of the team.”