Cycling Ireland, in partnership with Dublin City Council, has announced the launch of Cycle Fest, a new festival of cycling that will take place in the heart of the Dublin Docklands this Sunday, May 17th.
The free family-friendly event will bring together elite racing, community participation and cycling culture as the centrepiece of National Bike Week, which runs from May 9th to 17th.
Based around Grand Canal Square and the surrounding Docklands streets, the festival will feature a packed programme of activities for all ages and abilities.
Highlights include a family and inclusive cycle on closed city centre roads, a balance bike race for younger riders, a Brompton folding bike race, BMX and bike polo demonstrations, and an event village featuring leading cycling brands and retailers including Orbea, Scott Bikes, Specialized Ireland, Cycle Ways and Decathlon.
Cycle Fest will also host the National Criterium Championships, bringing riders from across the country to compete on a closed-road circuit through the Docklands between Hanover Quay and Sir John Rogerson’s Quay.
The criterium format is one of the most spectator-friendly disciplines in cycling, featuring short, fast laps and tactical racing that often builds towards dramatic sprint finishes.
The day’s schedule begins with the Masters Race at 10:15am and concludes with the Elite Men’s Race at 4:20pm, with youth races, inclusive cycling activities, and family participation events running throughout the day.
“Cycling is one of the best ways to experience Dublin,” said Lord Mayor Ray McAdam.
“It is clean, healthy, accessible and, above all, it allows people to see our city at street level, through its neighbourhoods, along its quays, through its parks and in the heart of its communities.”
“As Lord Mayor, my theme is Celebrating Dublin, and this festival does exactly that. It celebrates movement, sport, family fun, community spirit and the simple joy of being out in our city together.”
“I am delighted to join Cycling Ireland in launching this fantastic festival of cycling on May 17th. Free to all, it will bring the excitement of elite racing together with a brilliant programme of family-friendly activities.”
“My hope is that young people who come along on the day will not only enjoy the spectacle, but discover a lifelong love of cycling, one that benefits their health, their confidence, their communities and our city.”
Cycling Ireland President Ciarán Cannon said the event reflected growing enthusiasm for cycling across Ireland.
“Cycle Fest is a brilliant way to showcase cycling at every level,” he said.
“From elite racing to family-friendly activities, this event in the heart of the Dublin Docklands reflects the growing enthusiasm for cycling across Ireland.”
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring communities together, highlight the accessibility of the sport, and celebrate the many ways people can get involved. We’re looking forward to an exciting and memorable day for riders and spectators alike.”
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Image Credit: Cycling Ireland and Dublin City Council
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