Calm Before The Storm: The race heads for Healy Pass on stage 3 last year
By Brian Canty
Ireland’s premier stage race for women, An Post Rás na mBan promises to be another gruelling test according to the just-published route details of the five-stage challenge.
The event is set to see riders from all over the country take part while there is also a sprinkling of international talent set to make the trip to Kerry for the race which starts on September 9th and runs until the 13th.
Race organisers Valerie Considine and Louis Moriarty have designed a route that they believe will put riders to the extremes of the physical limits.
“With this route we’ve tried to retain the essential character while adding a few new ingredients to the mix,” says Considine.
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“It’s a parcours that will make it difficult for any one team to control the race and there are stages to suit everyone in it. The An Post Queen Stage is an exciting new addition which will bring the most out in the overall contenders.”
“Ongoing support from An Post, Sneem Hotel, the IVCA along with a host of associate sponsors means we have an enhanced prize list and an expanded County Rider stage and overall classification for local club riders to chase.”
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Moriarty’s Sneem Hotel is to sponsor the County Rider jersey.
Says Considine: “The Rás na mBan finisher’s medals will be well earned this year and are sure to be highly prized. Entries are up on last year and we’re set for a record number of riders on the roads of Kerry next month. It’s going to be a cracker.”
Indeed, at over 400 kilometres the race promises to be a challenging one and new for this year is a short road stage followed by a 3km time trial in the afternoon of the first day.
The Queen stage eluded to above is on day 4 and includes the climbs of Ballaghabearna and Ballaghasheen for the first time along with the regular ascent of Coomaciste as it works its way across some of the most spectacular scenery in the Ring of Kerry.
The following day, though only 57 kilometres in length, features the climbs of Moll’s Gap and Carraig na Gaoithe which will surely present those in contention with a final opportunity to wrestle hold of the yellow jersey.
With the race in mind, the women’s commission of Ireland have organised a free training weekend this weekend in Co. Wicklow where reigning National champion Mel Spath will be on hand to provide information on tips on training.
There will also be coaching support on hand to give advice on what to consider when preparing for the race.
Please contact [email protected] to book your place.
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