Mizen to Malin cyclist final preparation event

The challenge is to cycle from Mizen Head in Co Cork to Malin Head in Co Donegal a distance of 598kms (368miles)in under 20hrs non stop, the speed they will have to average 31 kph (19.3mph)

This is what was proposed to the cycling fanatics all over Ireland last January, 49 people replied back then, now we are down to 20 riders who are still keen to finish the job, the attrition rate has been worst than expected said Padraig Marrey organiser of the bid on behalf of the Western Lakes CC, he believes that the main obstacle has been getting the time to train as the training time required is up on 20hrs a week which is a big commitment for people with full time jobs.

This weekend the 6th and 7th of June is the last big test, over the weekend the aim is to cycle 250 miles (430k) over the 2 days… the group will cycle from Ballinrobe Co Mayo to Dublin (230k)on the Saturday and then cycle the 200 hilly KMS of the Wicklow 200 on the Sunday.

These spins will test the limits of the remaining participants and if they get through these tests it will help imbed confidence that they are prepared for the challenge to come.

Undertaking a challenge like this requires a lot of planning with routes and food stops having to be mapped out, experienced back up personal required, having cyclist who are fit with the right mentality and then having the unpredictability of the weather where we will need lady luck on our side, hopefully having a strong South South Westerly wind and dry warm conditions.

More reports will follow closer to the event.

The majority of the group are doing the bid in aim of Rock Rose House Cancer support care unit in Castlebar. The promotion of a cancer care charity like Rock Rose House ties in neatly with the arrival of Lance Armstrong in Ireland later in the summer for the Tour of Ireland in August and the World summit on Cancer to be held in Dublin on the 24th of August.

 Any cycling clubs who are based near the route can give the group a roar or a cheer on Friday the 26th of June as it would be much appreciated.