Final arrangements are being put in place this week for this Saturday’s inaugural Lough Key Classic Cycling Sportive which will start and finish in Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
Organised by local cycling club – Curlieu Wheelers - the event will cover two distances – 120k for the more experienced cyclist and 60k for those who like a challenge.
Both routes will include the Geevagh – Highwood and Curlew Mountain climbs.
In addition there will be an optional King of the Mountains route taking in Staunton’s Brae just outside Ballyfarnon. Riders who want to undertake this challenge can turn off in Ballyfarnon and re-join the route again in Geevagh.
The 120k cycle sees riders leave Boyle at exactly 9am and head to Ballinameen, Elphin, Hillstreet, Drumsna, Leitrim Village, Keadue, Ballyfarnon, Geevagh, Highwood, Corrigeenroe, Doon and then cross the N4 to face the Curlew Mountain climb, crossing Garrow to the Ballymote road for the decent into Boyle.
The 60k route will see riders leave Boyle at exactly 10am and travel along the N4 to Ardcarne on to Keadue where they will join the 120k route.
There will be water stops along the way with the official food stop for both cycles in Ballyfarnon.
Paddy Paella will provide the post sportive food in the event HQ in the Sports Complex where there will be adequate parking and hot showers available.
The event is a recognised Cycling Ireland sportive and is open to those aged over 18 only.
Participants for the 120k and 60k cycles can register at the Sports Complex in the grounds of Abbey Community College in Boyle on Friday 15th from 7pm - 8.30pm and on Saturday 16th from 7.30am - 8.45am.
The sportive is limited to the first 250 riders with on line expressions of interest via Eventbrite.
Entry is €20 for Cycling Ireland members and €25 for non Cycling Ireland members.
All competitors will be entered in a free draw for cash and their entry fee back.
Last year’s successful event saw a donation being made to the Brothers of Charity. It is hoped to make a similar donation to a local charity again following this year’s event.
