Spring really is a time for change and new beginnings! With that in mind, it’s the ideal time to refresh your cycling goals, aiming higher this season! Setting goals will allow you to push your cycling to the next level, and with the great number of epic events and sportives around the country, there’s so much opportunity to do just that. Participating in a cycling event will not only improve your sportsmanship, endurance and love of the sport but riding alongside hundreds of like-minded cyclists is sure to push and encourage when you need it most. So tighten your helmet and get your kit on; we’ve rounded up a list of the country’s best events worth turning your wheels for!
3 Peaks Challenge
If you’re new to the world of cycling events then the 3 Peaks Challenge is the perfect place to start. Taking place on Sunday, April 5th in Arklow, this sportive offers a choice of either 70km or 107km. We love this route because of the natural beauty surrounding it – you’re continuously greeted by stunning Garden County scenery at every turn. Boasting to two famous climbs, the Slieve Maan and Shay Elliott, this one’s ideal for those after their first challenge. While this route isn’t as easy as a downhill cruise, we promise this is the perfect start for any cyclist looking to broaden their event portfolio. There’ll even be a bicycle repair service on hand which is always handy for settling those beginners nerves!
For more info click here.
ŠKODA Tour de Conamara
The Škoda Tour de Conamara takes places on May 23rd in Clifden, Galway and it’s the perfect choice for those aiming to push themselves that extra mile with the option of a 140km route. The beauty of Connemara truly dominates this one, with both coastal and inland panoramic views on offer. This event is a brilliant one to aim for, as not only is the route satisfying but the day itself is an absolute blast, with everything from a finishers’ barbeque to cyclist massage area! And if 140km seems a little bit daunting, there is an 80km alternative which may just save you the burning thighs!
For more info click here.
ŠKODA Ring of Clare
Fancy yourself a seasoned cyclist? Then the Škoda Ring of Clare is the perfect event to test your wheels! It kicks off in Ennis on July 18th and as always, the Wild Atlantic Way won’t disappoint! If you’re feeling brave you can tackle the 160km in its entirety, or you can opt for a calmer 120km. This route takes you through the jaw-dropping Loop Head peninsula and along the gorgeous Shannon estuary waters, so you’ll really be experiencing the best of the west! Although it may seem like a long distance, we promise it’s worth it! It’s is one of the most stunning sportives Ireland has to offer and one of the best to push yourself as an athlete.
Click here for more info.
3 Provinces 300
If you’re looking to jump into the deep end, 3 Provinces 300 should be top of your agenda. Starting in Slane on August 1st, this 300km event spans over Leinster, Connaught and Ulster. It is most certainly a challenge and those who attempt it should be wary that the last 100km of the route is on drumlin landscape, which will rely on steady pacing and well-kept tyres. If you’re looking to push yourself, then set this event as your next goal. Plus, it’s not every day you get to spin your wheels across three provinces! This event will elevate your status from cyclist to radonneur in just 300km – a small price to pay for the whopper title!
For more info, click here.
ŠKODA Tour de Boyne Valley
For those looking for a challenge, the chance to see some historic landmarks and an overall great day out on the bike then check this event out! Taking place in Drogheda on August 29th, this cycle can be completed in either 95k or 150km, with both routes passing through the beautiful heritage towns Monasterboice and Slane. This sportive is an amazing way to meet other cyclists who share your passion while taking in all the beauty of north-east! This route is also packed with top quality refuelling stops along the way which is sure to keep you powering through – even if your legs are giving in!
Click here for more info.
Thinking of giving racing a try? Make sure to fuel up with sports nutritionist Sharon Madigan’s top tips for summer cycles here.
