Bausch + Lomb employees took to the bikes yesterday as part of a special Spinathon fundraiser in aid of the RNLI, with staff challenged to “Beat the Boss” while raising awareness for the lifesaving work carried out by crews across Waterford.

The event, which took place onsite at the Waterford facility, saw senior leadership team members set benchmark times on the spin bikes for colleagues to try and beat throughout the day, adding a competitive and fun element to the fundraiser.

Speaking to WLR at the event, RNLI Community Manager Connie Kiersey said initiatives like this are hugely important in helping to raise awareness about the work carried out by RNLI volunteers along the coast.

Kiersey, who has volunteered with the RNLI for 19 years and has worked as Community Manager for the past two years, said many people living and working in the city are often unaware of the level of dedication and commitment involved in the service.

She highlighted the three RNLI stations in Waterford — Dunmore East, Tramore, and Helvick — and praised the volunteer crews who leave everything behind at a moment’s notice to respond to emergencies at sea.

Kiersey described the RNLI as “a family and a community,” explaining that her own involvement began nearly two decades ago after attending an AGM simply to hand over a cheque.

Meanwhile, Shirley Russell, HR Generalist at Bausch + Lomb, said the company was delighted to host the event and support the RNLI while also encouraging staff interaction and community involvement.

Russell said the real focus of the day was to shine a light on the RNLI and the incredible work carried out by volunteers, including two Bausch + Lomb employees who are actively involved with the service.

She noted that emergency services are often fully appreciated only when communities need them most, citing the recent Tycor fire and the response from frontline services.

The event also tied into the RNLI’s wider Mayday campaign, which aims to raise awareness and support for lifesaving services nationwide.

Alongside the fundraising effort, Russell also spoke about Bausch + Lomb’s continued growth and investment in Waterford, where the company now employs close to 1,600 people.

She also praised the ongoing success of the Waterford Viking Marathon, which Bausch + Lomb sponsors alongside WLR, saying the event continues to grow year after year and plays a major role in bringing visitors into the city and county.

Staff, volunteers, and RNLI members spent the day encouraging participation in the Spinathon, with organisers hopeful the fundraiser would not only raise vital funds but also inspire more people to learn about and support the RNLI’s work in the community.

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