Past and present GAA stars Joe Deane, Tony Griffin, Paul Earley, Ja Fallon, and Sean Ó Domhnaill will be taking part in this year’s Tour of Connemara cycle.
The Tour de Conamara, to be held in Clifden on Sunday May 15, will cater for all levels of cyclists this year, including a 160km, 80km, and 14km family cycle.
The various routes were selected by former international cyclist and TG4 Tour de France commentator, Pádraic Quinn.
“There will be something in this event for everyone,” says Quinn. “The scenery along the 160km and 80km cycle will be hard to beat, and we are avoiding busy roads so riders can enjoy the scenery in a more secure environment.”
Young cyclists, whose parents are participating in the 80km/160km cycle, can avail of a cycle training session by the Safer Cycling Initiative. The SCI, a company that provides safe cycling training in communities and schools, will provide bikes and helmets, but places are limited.
Cost of entry for the 80km and 160km routes is €39, including food during and after the event, as well as a Tour de Conamara lightweight cycling jacket. The cost of the family cycle is €10.
In addition to the GAA stars, participants will include a special guest from professional cycling. Many taking part will view the event as excellent preparation for the Race the Rás charity event which commences the following weekend.
The Tour de Conamara is supported by the County Galway Sports Partnership, Forum and West Coast Wheelers CC. The event is organised by TríSpórt, which hopes to develop the event in 2012 to be part of an international cycling festival.
