AND they’re off. One of the biggest events on Ireland’s cycling calendar, the Killarney Cycling Festival, is currently underway and while the sunshine is nowhere to be seen, participants will welcome the calm conditions that will help them to keep relatively cool on their journey.
The adventure-loving charity champions set off bright and early this morning on two routes around the Ring of Kerry.
The Wrong Way Round option left Killarney and tackled Moll’s Gap before heading for the south west, via Sneem. From there on the route is familiar as it passes Waterville, Caherciveen, Glenbeigh and Killorglin.
Those that prefer a tougher challenge, set off on the Hard Way Round, taking a right for Ballaghbeama and a detour around the Skellig Ring before rejoining the main group on the road to Caherciveen.
All cyclists will cross the finish line at the festival headquarters in the Gleneagle Hotel Killarney, where a barbeque and live entertainment is ready and waiting.
Some of the funds on the day will go to the Donal Walsh LiveLife Foundation and the late Donal’s father, Fionnbarr, donned his helmet and cycling shorts to lead the participants off on the journey this morning.
Pictures: Don MacMonagle. Click on individual images to enlarge and for information
