The rescheduled 2020 Donegal Atlantic Way Ultra 555K Challenge has been given the green light to proceed by Cycling Ireland.
Organisers of the event were forced to postpone and
reschedule due to the Covid19 pandemic.
However, even though they had said the race would take
place from the later date of August 28th that was dependent on final approval
based on how Covid19 rates developed in Ireland.
In May the organisers said there was a “good chance” the
race would take place. But now the race is on a much firmer footing and can
proceed, subject to any sudden change in conditions such as the re-imposition
of lock-down.
Race organisers Sean McFadden and Eugene McGettigan
explained Cycling Ireland has told them that based on current conditions the
way is clear for the event to proceed.
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“Because of the restrictions the race couldn’t go ahead
on the normal date in June. So, rather than cancel it for 2020, we opted to
reschedule it with the hope that the restrictions would ease,” McFadden said.
“Thankfully, that is the way things have unfolded and
myself and co-organiser, Eugene McGettigan, are really looking forward to
holding another successful event,” he added.
“Given the nature of the event, which is being held under
the auspices of Cycling Ireland, we were confident that we would get go-ahead.
As an ultra race with competitors riding solo, it is in its nature an act of
social distancing.
“As organisers we are looking at means of ensuring the
same social distancing pre and post race. Cycling Ireland have been a huge help
to us.
“We have been working closely with them in relation to
drawing up revised health and safety management plan. Only for Cycling Ireland
we simply would not be able to hold the race this year.
“Those who are taking part are really excited at the
prospect of getting a race again after such a long lay-off. I know that a lot
of cyclists were training hard inside during the lockdown. Zwift racing and
indoor racing has certainly helped bring people on this year.”
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