Jason Black Wins Irish Ultra Challenge

Jason Black, winner of the Irish Ultra Challenge 2017, surrounded by his support crew on the podium in Moynalty, Meath today.

Donegal’s Jason Black has taken victory in the Irish Ultra Challenge, the 1100km race that runs in conjunction with Race Around Ireland.

The noted adventure sportsman, who counts successful ascents of Mount Everest and K2 among his personal achievements won the fifth edition of the Ultra Challenge when rode into Moynalty, County Meath 50 hours and 51 minutes after he left the neighbouring town of Trim on Sunday afternoon.

Black’s average speed of 22.2kmh was more than four kilometres per hour faster than the previous record held by Meath’s Pat Doocey, the latter-named currently lying fourth in the 2,168km Race Around Ireland which is due to end later in the end week.

As he crossed the line to complete his epic journey around the coastline of the top half of the island, Black was more than 56km in front of John McCormack and holding almost 80km advantage over third placed Renzo Cherazzi of Italy.

For Black it was a personal vindication having failed to complete last year’s Race Around Ireland within the time limit. He returned this year to the Ultra Challenge a wiser and better-prepared athlete and was never headed throughout his dominant two days of racing.

"This is an amazing event and the route is so challenging," said Black as he stepped from his bike in Moynalty. "I'm delighted to be able to come back to this event after last year and I'd like to pay tribute to my amazing crew and crew chief for their support.

"I learnt a huge amount in not finishing last year's Race Around Ireland and I came back this year with a new strategy, new training and new approach on nutrition.

"It all came together and I'm thrilled to do so well and to set a new record in the Irish Ultra Challenge."

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About Race Around Ireland

On Sunday 27th of August 2017, cyclists from all over the world will line up in Trim, County Meath, to take on the ninth Race Around Ireland and the Irish Ultra Challenge.

Race Around Ireland is regarded as one of the toughest cycling challenges in the world and will take the racers on a 2,151km journey past some of the most stunning scenery in Ireland. The route takes in Newgrange, The Causeway Coast, Malin Head, The Cliffs of Moher, The Ring of Kerry, Mizen Head, the Garden County (Wicklow) and back to Moynalty in County Meath and ALL within a week.

The Irish Ultra Challenge is a 1,100km race and is seen as being the perfect stepping-stone into the world of ultra-cycling. Solo riders have 68 hours to finish. There is no team devision in the Irish Ultra Challenge.

For more information, please visit: www.racearoundireland.com