Cork Senior Hurling Manager John Meyler may well be thinking of what might have been as we prepare for Sunday’s All Ireland Senior Hurling Championship final but yesterday he turned his thoughts towards another passion when launching the Wild Atlantic Way Cycle Sportif.
Fáilte Ireland and Ride Wild are backing the event which will take place from 8th to 26th of September, passing through some of the most spectacular coastline and seascapes from Cork to Donegal.
The fully supported event is open to female and male leisure cyclists, amateurs and those who simply want to challenge themselves to an epic adventure on one of the longest and most stunning touring routes in the world.
Over 16 stages and 2,000 kilometres, cyclists will experience the stunning coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way including areas of great natural beauty such as Valentia and Achill Islands and five Classic Climbs including Sheep’s Head, the Beara Peninsula, Coominaspic, the Conor Pass and Glengesh Pass.
They will also pass eight lighthouses, 15 Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Points and 255 towns and villages.
“I’m a huge fan of the Wild Atlantic Way Cycle Sportif,” said Meyler.
“It’s fantastic to get into the fresh air on the bike and completely switch off and enjoy the experience of the Sportif. Taking in the spectacular views and building friendships, this is an adventure all cyclists, regardless of level, should embrace.”
“This will be my second time taking part in the Sportif, and it’s a rewarding and enjoyable challenge that enriches your appreciation for the natural beauty and amazing communities and towns of the Wild Atlantic Way.”
“We are delighted to see so many cyclists from both home and abroad taking up the challenge of cycling the Wild Atlantic Way,” added Fiona Monaghan, Head of Product Development – Activities at Fáilte Ireland.
“This is the third time the event has been held, attracting cyclists along the full length of the route and helping tourism businesses in the region to stay open longer, beyond the summer season.”
Entry to the multi-day event will include accommodation, meals and the official cycling kit consisting of a cycling jersey and shower jacket. There will be a kit, laundry service and bag transfers as well as paramedic and mechanical support where required.
There will also be the opportunity to take part in a single day or to dip in and out of the event with prices from €75 for a single stage to €695 for a block of four stages including overnight accommodation.
It’s an impressive looking and well organised way to get pretty serious about your cycling as well as the history and beauty of Ireland’s western seaboard.
For those who enjoy cycling but may have to settle for something a little less ambitious for 2018, join us on Thursday morning of this week for news from the launch of the Great Dublin Bike Ride taking place as part of the new Dublin #Sportsfest on Saturday, September 22nd.
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