Ireland's top cyclists will return to Galway next month for the third annual Étape Connemara cycle race on Sunday August 16.
Attracting both national and international cyclists, this year's chip-timed cycle sportive expects to attract some 400 competitors, both club and leisure riders, who can choose either a 100km or a 150km course that takes in the scenic beauty of Connemara.
The event, which is in aid of Croí, the heart and stroke charity based in Galway, departs from Croí House in Newcastle, Galway, and takes in Moycullen, Oughterard, Maam Cross, The Maam Valley, Clonbur, Finny, and Lough Na Fooey before heading back to Galway for a well earned barbecue at Croí House.
Participants compete against the clock to complete the challenging 100km and 150km routes where their finishing time becomes the target to beat the following year.
The event provides leisure cyclists with an opportunity to challenge themselves against some of the best club cyclists in the country.
Croí is hoping this year's event will be the biggest Étape to date, and any individual or club wishing to take up the challenge and help support Croí can contact Croí fundraising manager, Barry McCann, telephone 091 544331 or email: [email protected].
The general entry fee is €40, or €60 which includes a limited edition cycle jersey. Special rates are available for clubs entering teams. For more information about the event, visit: www.etapeconnemara.ie.
