Cycle Challenge West, 16th August 2009, Westport
The very first Cycle Challenge West took place on Sunday the 16th of August and it was a great success. There was something for everyone with three routes to choose from of 50km, 100km and 150km. The 50km Route gave those starting out a taste for what it's like to cycle through the mountains and take in some epic scenery. The 100km Route was the middle ground between beginners and seasoned veterans. The 150km Route was said by everyone who did it to be tougher than the Wicklow 200. The 150km Route isn't for the faint hearted. It passes through lots of mountains and lives up to it's name of Cycle Challenge West. Our cyclists made the most of the day enjoying the scenery and the chats along the way. There were feed stations on every route to refuel at. Afterwards, people showered in Westport House and soaked up the post event camaraderie over a hot meal.
Cycle Challenge West Photo's now added:
Photo's 1
Photo's 2
€5 of each entry went to the Irish Heart Foundation. This meant that for every 5 entries (€25) another CPR lifesaver was placed in the community to save more lives. So thanks for doing your part to help save lives.
The Peleton Comes to Westport - Cycle Challenge West in the Irish Times Magazine - click for link.
The Venue
Westport, winner of the 2008 Tidy Town's competition is surrounded by Ireland's most scenic cycling. The sportive venue will be The Farmyard in the grounds of Westport House . Westport House is one of Ireland's most beautiful, privately owned, 18th century Historic Homes. It is situated in a magnificent Parkland setting, with a Lake, Terraces and Gardens overlooking Clew Bay. This will be the venue for Sign-On, Start and Finish, Free Parking, Hot Showers and a Free Hot Meal afterwards. 
The Routes
There are three routes to choose from. All three routes will start out together for the first 25kms.
- 50km Partry Hills Route. Food and Water station at 26kms. Map of Route.
- 100km Doo Lough Pass Route. Food and water stations at 44kms and 58kms.Map of Route.
- 150km Maamturk Mountains Route. Food and water stations at 44kms, 81kms and 106kms. Map of Route.
For more information about Cycle Challenge West, be sure to contact Art@OnYourBike.ie