The west of Ireland is set to get acquainted with gravel racing next month when the inaugural Gravel Grind West takes place over two days in Co Mayo.
Gravel racing has taken off in the US in recent years and is threatening to do the same in Europe. And now the organisers of the new Irish event are trying to make the first move in the West and create their own real estate on what is very much a fledgling scene here.
The new Gravel Grind West event is being promoted by Ireland West Promotion, the same company behind the Wild Mayo Ultra Cycle, which took place in Co Mayo for the first time ever last month.
The new event – more details by following this link - will unfold on September 17th and 18th, based around Westport.
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On Friday, September 17th, the Skelp Blast takes place.
It is described by the organisers as “a 26km test against the clock that will
give the beginner off-roader a chance to experience gravel biking first hand”.
The Skelp Blast includes a neutralised section of just over 4km, out and back, and a 16.5km timed sector featuring the Skelp climb. From the steep climb you can take in views of the Shreffrey Valley and the back of Croagh Patrick – though you probably won’t take in any views considering the pressure you’ll be under.
The following day, there are two routes on offer; The
Bothy, which is 60km, and the 100km Wild Nephin.
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The organisers say The Bothy is “achievable for the
novice and experienced gravel rider”. They added that “40 per cent of the
route is using the greenway, 25 per cent on quiet back roads and 35 per cent on
gravel/fire track”.
The Wild Nephin, at 100km, is suited to more experienced
riders seeking a more challenging outing and the course unfolds in Ballycroy
National Park.
“This route offers riders a challenge that will test and
excite them making them hungry for more as they grind across the gravel towards
the much anticipated finish line,” the organisers say.
“The route features approximately 30km of greenway, 20km
by quiet back road and 50km on gravel of all types.”
Bryan Hyland joint event organiser said he and his team
were looking forward to welcoming the riders.
“We are delighted to bring the Gravel Grind West to
Westport, we encourage all cyclist and especially those looking to challenge
themselves or to try something new in cycling to get involved and sign up to enjoy
one or more of the events,” he said.
“You can use any type of off-road bike from a full-sus
MTB to an entry level gravel bike for all events over the weekend. We will even
allow E-Bikes on Saturday’s two events The Bothy and Wild Nephin.”
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