If your competitive juices are flowing, then the sportive schedule is likely to be catching your eye right now; leaving winter training in your tracks, some spectacular cycling challenges await this summer.<\/p>\n
From the rugged backdrop of the Donegal coast to the smooth closed circuit of Mondello Park, all four corners of Ireland will be jam-packed with cyclists galore. We give you the lowdown on the Irish cycling events you\u2019ll want to mark on your 2022 calendar, and our top training tips to set you up for sportive action!<\/p>\n
\u0160koda Celtic Series \u2013 May and July 2022<\/strong><\/p>\n Embrace the beautiful counties of Galway and Clare with \u0160koda\u2019s Celtic Series, promising a satisfying sportive for those taking part in these 80-160km challenges.<\/p>\n The Tour de Conemara, setting off on Saturday 28th<\/sup> May, will see participants travel through Conemara\u2019s magnificent mountainous and coastal territory. Likewise, the Ring of Clare, offers the sights and sounds of the spectacular Loop Head Peninsula and the Shannon Estuary on Saturday 16th<\/sup> July.<\/p>\n For the latest news and updates on the series, check out tourdeconamara.ie<\/a> and ringofclare.ie.<\/a><\/p>\n Tour de Burren \u2013 Saturday 18th<\/sup> June<\/strong><\/p>\n Co. Clare\u2019s 120-kilometre cycling ramble, which has in the past attracted the likes of Irish pro Sam Bennett, is regarded as one of the most enjoyable sportives on the west coast. Starting in the harbour village of Ballyvaughan, cyclists will experience the dramatic scenery of the Burren landscape, and its altogether friendly distance means it\u2019s a lovely way to dip your toe into the competitive scene!<\/p>\n Organised by the local Burren Cycling Club, over 2,000 cyclists take part in the event each year. You can access more details on prices and tickets at tourdeburren.com<\/a>.<\/u><\/p>\n Donegal Atlantic Way Ultra 555 \u2013 Friday 5th<\/sup> August<\/strong><\/p>\n This premier 555-kilometre challenge, which starts and finishes in \u2018the Cathedral town\u2019, Letterkenny, comprises an exhilarating \u2013 if exhausting! \u2013 tour of majestic Co. Donegal. Spectacular views at every turn are very much par for the course, though this one is not for the faint-hearted; ex-pro Conor Dunne described the course as one of \u2018the most challenging physical and mental battles of his life\u2019.<\/a><\/p>\n If you\u2019re feeling up for it, individual entry starts from \u20ac275 and you can find all of the info you\u2019ll need at donegalultra555.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n Mondello24 \u2013 Saturday 18th<\/sup> June<\/strong><\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for a unique 24-hour endurance challenge, look no further than Mondello24, taking place on the Co. Kildare circuit typically associated with motor racing. While the thought of 1,440 minutes in the saddle won\u2019t be to everyone\u2019s taste, the group entry option means it\u2019s an event for all levels of cyclists \u2013 and with a closed, smoothly surfaced circuit, there\u2019s no oncoming traffic or pesky potholes to worry about!<\/p>\n Tickets for solo entry are available for \u20ac275 and you can find out all the details at mondellopark.ie<\/a>.<\/p>\n Cycling Ireland Road National Series \u2013 March-August 2022<\/strong><\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to test your skills against the best, then this five-stage series is the ultimate in Irish racing. Senior and Junior men and women will be venturing across the island, as the roads of counties Carlow, Limerick, Meath, Mayo and Down host instalments of the season-long contest.<\/p>\n Visit the Cycling Ireland – Road National Series website<\/a> for everything you\u2019ll need on dates and registration \u2013 and by becoming a member of Cycling Ireland, you\u2019ll have exclusive access to event discounts and even more.<\/p>\n Top training tips for preparing for a cycling challenge<\/strong><\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re an experienced cycling enthusiast or new to the endurance cycling scene, you\u2019ll need to make sure you\u2019re well prepared to be pushed to great limits with our top training tips\u2026<\/p>\n From a well-lubed chain and the perfect handlebar adjustments to the right gear to keep the elements at bay, your day in the saddle can be a lot more comfortable with some smart preparation. Form habits during your training \u2013 like looking after your bike and logging your kit from rides where you were hot\/cold\/just right \u2013 and if you\u2019re a beginner, check out our top recommended bike maintenance tutorials.<\/a><\/p>\n Sticking to a solid and regular training plan will help to prepare you physically for any endurance challenge. The Cycling Ireland Training Hub<\/a> offer bespoke cycling-specific training sessions. You could also join a local cycling club \u2013 the sense of community can bring a social element to your training!<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to be fuelling yourself with the right food for your cycling needs. Whether it\u2019s pre-workout<\/a>, race day<\/a> or recovery<\/a>, understanding nutrition will optimise your performance in the saddle. Electrolyte drinks and energy bars are great for carbohydrate intake on the day, but don\u2019t get too tempted by all the goodies at every fuel station \u2013 stick to a plan that works for you!<\/p>\n\n
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