The second event of this year’s ‘ŠKODA Celtic Cycle Series’, the Ring of Clare, is coming to Ennis on Saturday 29th July.
The event, which is sold out, expects to see 2,200 cyclists take to their saddles with a further influx of 2,000 visitors descending on Ennis to take part in the first Bike Fleadh. The event will be welcoming cyclists from over 20 countries and is expected to bring a €1 million boost to the local economy. This is the second year of ŠKODA Ireland’s three part nationwide cycling initiative which kicked off in May with the Tour de Conamara.
Participants have two route options available to them, 120km and 160km, depending on how much of a challenge they are looking for! Both routes include the best of what Clare has to offer cyclists and visitors. Cyclists can enjoy the beautiful scenery that is the Wild Atlantic Way, travel through the Loop Head peninsula and cruise along by the stunning Shannon Estuary waters. A grandstand ŠKODA finish will be waiting for cyclists when they cross the line.
Speaking in advance of the ŠKODA Ring of Clare, Cathal Kealey, PR, Sponsorship and Events Manager for ŠKODA Ireland, said; “Our nationwide cycle series highlights some of the best cycling destinations in the country and we are delighted to host another sold out event in Ennis. The addition of the Bike Fleadh will ensure there is plenty of entertainment and fun to be had on and off the bike and with spectacular coastal and estuary routes selected we’re sure all participants will have a great day out.”
To ensure all cyclists were well looked after in advance of the cycle, Al Hayes Motors ŠKODA dealership on Gort Road, Ennis, will be hosting a pre-event Pasta Party event on Friday from 4.30 – 8.30pm. Participants are able to sign in for the cycle at this time, collect their goody bag and enjoy their pre-race meal. In addition a dedicated bike mechanic will also be on site ensuring that all cyclist’s bikes are in perfect order for the challenge. Participants can also avail of discounted ŠKODA cycling merchandise.
Speaking about the event, Damien Hayes of Al Hayes Motors said, “We were once again delighted to be involved in this year’s ŠKODA Celtic Cycle Series and we are looking forward to welcoming the Ring of Clare to Ennis. With over 4,000 visitors expected we hope the event will have a big sport tourism impact on the area and we hope it can become an annual event on the cycling calendar. We encourage all participants will come visit us on Friday 28th July to enjoy a pre-race meal and ensure their bikes are in good working order. All of us here at Al Hayes Motors would like to wish all the cyclists the very best of luck.”
The ŠKODA Celtic Cycle Series will see a total of 4,500 cyclists take part in three different events this year. The third and final event is the Tour de Boyne Valley taking place on 10th September departing from Western Motors ŠKODA in Drogheda.
The ŠKODA Celtic Cycle Series has been developed for all ages and abilities with both a short and long distance option available for participant’s at all three events ranging from 70km to 160km making the series perfect for mixed groups. Along with that it is a fantastic social occasion with a great atmosphere that is not be missed if you’re a keen cyclist.
ŠKODA will also have you looking the part with a top quality high performance cycling kit available to purchase at all events throughout the summer as well as ŠKODA dealerships nationwide!
Further information and registration details can be found at www.celticseries.ie or check out ŠKODA’s We Love Cycling Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WeLoveCyclingIRL.