EIRE OG CYCLING CLUB

The inaugural Race Around Ireland cycling marathon kicks off in Navan today. This race is classed as one of the toughest ultra endurance cycling events in the world with only the 3000 mile Race Across America offering a bigger challenge to riders. The Ultra Marathon Cycling Association have sanctioned The Race Around Ireland and have made it part of their World Cup series. This has attracted some formidable names in both the solo and team categories, including Caroline van den Bulk 2008 World Cup Champion and Fabio Biasiolo. Fabio is a true legend of ultramarathon cycling and is currently ranked No.1 in the world. He is a former Italian MTB Champion who has entered the Race Across America (RAAM) 11 times.

 Amongst the teams local interest centres on the An Post Team Connacht which includes 6 members of the Martin Cadden sponsored Eire Og Racing Team. Team manager Colm Casey has put together a formidable team of riders and crew and indeed are hotly tipped as one of the favourites for the team event. The race consists of 1350 miles with over 75,000 feet of vertical gain including some of the most backbreaking mountain ascents in Ireland. Some of the climbs on the menu are the infamous Mamore Gap in Donegal reckoned to be one of the steepest roads in the country, Maamtrasna in Co. Mayo overlooking the mystical Lough Nafooey, Seanafeistin in Connemara which will be navigated in total darkness, Molls Gap, Coomakishta, Mount Leinster, Aughavanagh and The Sally Gap to name a few. The team will will be riding non stop day and night and hope to complete the event in under 70 hours.

The riders are due to reach Sligo on Thursday the 17th at 2pm, where they will check in at the time station situated at the Esso Service Station on Pearse Road. Come on out and cheer them on in their bid to win the Race around Ireland. Follow the progress of the team online @ www.teamconnacht.com

A big thanks goes out to all the sponsors without whom participation in the race would not be possible. Flannery Cleaning Services, Marrey Bikes, Whats On In Sligo, FPM Chartered Accountants, Sligo Credit Union, Connollys Bar, Morans Bar and Freddy in Sundrelle Ireland.