Waterford to Dungarvan Greenway Challenge September 2018

Through funding made available under the Women In Sport initiative, Cycling Ireland were able to support a number of programmes and events throughout 2018, with the purpose of encouraging more females to get involved in cycling. This report comes from one group, The H.E.A.R.T Project in Belfast.




 


Eight fearless female cyclists with varying cycling abilities and experiences gathered together to take on the Deise Greenway. The sunny south east lived up to its reputation and we were blessed with a glorious day for the challenge.

Bikes were collected and adjusted at the WIT by Donal and the team from Waterford bike hire.

We donned our H.E.A.R.T. Project hi viz vests, our Cycling Ireland buffs, our helmets and our sunnies, and after a quick photo, headed on our way.




 

What struck us was how relaxed those train drivers who previously used this route must have been on their journeys in and out of Waterford along the majestic yet tranquil Suir River.

Nature was at its best with the leaves turning on the trees and the Comeragh hills looking imposing in the distance. We even spotted a large eagle.

The route itself is well constructed with a smooth surface and good signage. There is so much to admire as far as manmade construction both past and present is concerned. The viaducts are breathtaking and the massive tunnel is an impressive piece of engineering – even in the darkness!

Along the way, we had a puncture and met a local cyclist who encouraged us to follow him to the back entrance of Kirwan’s bar in Kilmacthomas (it didn’t take much encouragement) where we enjoyed our lunch and a pint of juice (!) in the sunshine of their beer garden.


 

The final descent into Dungarvan was enjoyed by all as the rear ends reminded us of the distance we had travelled. We send huge thanks to Cycling Ireland for enabling this challenge to be met!