“Hills of Donegal” Sportive 2012

   
Last Saturday, Errigal Cycling Club in North West Donegal played host to one of the most scenic and challenging sportives in the Irish Cycling calendar as over 60 cyclists signed on at The Lagoon, Termon on the main N56 to tackle the “Hills of Donegal” Sportive, participants travelled from as far as Belfast, Shimna Wheelers-Newcastle, (Co. Down), Carn Wheelers (Maghera) and Swords CC (Dublin) to name but a few. There was a good turnout from the local clubs with one notable entrant a certain Kris Meeke, the 2009 Intercontinental Rally challenge champion who hails from Dungannon proved he’s just as good on two wheels as he is on four! It was great to see a good turnout of ladies too for the event.

The event itself was not for the faint hearted, the route covered vast amounts of climbing terrain with multiple cat 4 and 5 climbs and throw in the “Mamm” outside Creeslough…not too many climbs in the Northwest as challenging as this one.

           The first 50km of the event was a “warm up” for what was to follow as the cyclists travelled over Glendowan and down into Doohary. The first big challenge of the day commenced in Maghery, this was a very scenic loop with country roads and long climbs but the views were breathtaking. This section of the Sportive was the highlight for a lot of participants, from there it was down into Dungloe and over to Anagary for a tea stop in Sharkey’s Bar. Michael and Jackie had a fabulous spread laid on for the cyclists and it was well needed at this stage.

After the break the large group cycled over Errigal mountain, out over Muckish mountain and onto what most thought was the toughest climb of the day, known locally as the “Maam”…its a real “lung buster” and with plenty of traversing the cyclists made it to the top..Parts of that climb reach 14% if you are to heed Mr. Garmin!

However, the group did split on the “Mamm” into smaller groups as the ascents started to take their toll! It was onto Atlantic drive on the Downings Peninsula for the penultimate climb and finally up over Lough Salt. The final ascent over Lough Salt was a welcome one for most and down into the finish at Termon for a well deserved shower and food.

After speaking to many participants the word “tough” was most used but quickly followed by… “But it was worth it”! The general consensus after the event by most was very positive and the club would like to thank all that travelled from near and far to support the event. We now have our own “Wicklow 200″ in the Northwest and arguably a lot more scenic!

Well done to everyone who took part and and a special word of thanks to all who  marshalled and helped out in making sure the event ran successfully.
It was a fabulous event and anyone that has any ideas to make the event better for next year feel free to log on to our website forum and share with us your ideas.

Looking forward to next year already….

Photos under the Media tab.