What was the best leisure event in 2017?

We have never had so many events of such immense quality, with plenty of options for every kind of cyclist. The below nominations have been submitted by the Cycling Ireland Provinces and Commissions.




Great Dublin Bike Ride
The Great Dublin Bike ride brings cycling to the centre of our capital city, and this year’s edition was best yet having sold out for both 60km and 100 km distances. The ride is a young event that is open to everyone, providing a safe, controlled and challenging cycle for the participants. This day required the involvement of many volunteers who all did brilliant work ensuring it was an enjoyable experience for all.



Inishowen 100
The Irishowen 100 (or i100) is now an event that is on the "to do" list of any cycling enthusiast in Ireland. The sportive run by Foyle Cycling Club covers approximately 102 miles taking in the stunning coastline Inishowen Penisula, whilst also giving riders a tough challenge on the climbs of Mamore Gap and Kinnego Bay. There is also a 64 mile variation for cyclists who might be too daunted by i100’s ascents. A brilliantly executed event, the i100 organises everything from the marshals to the food stops to perfection.





Old Velos Vintage Classic
A celebration of all things retro, the Old Velos Vintage Classic is not your normal cycling event. The weekend, which took place on the Waterford Greenway, included an exhibition of vintage racing bikes, tandems, tricycles, high nellies and cycling memorabilia. There was also a leisure cycle on the Sunday with five different routes ranging from 20-75 kilometres. Add in a number of competitions including prizes for the best bicycles and best dressed cyclist, and you have a jam packed weekend with something for everybody to enjoy.






Turas na mBan
The Turas na mBan is a women’s only sportive organised by the Clare Ladies Cycling Club. The event was initially created to bring female cyclists together whilst improving fitness. The sportive has done a fantastic job promoting women's cycling with many women having been introduced to the sport for the first time. The Ennis-based event has also raised much-needed funds for local charities.


Ultimate Burren MTB Challenge
The event hosted by Burren Cycling Club has got the spirit of a leisure/sportive event just right. The Ultimate Burren MTB Challenge provides the chance to ride through a unique landscape across the Burren and including the Aillwee Caves which are normally inaccessible. The cycle offered 40 and 60 kilometre routes this year with the whole community, including local businesses and farmers, coming together to make this event possible.