Please see poster HERE

PRESS RELEASE

A major new cycling event will hit Connemara this summer.  The Tour de Conamara, which will be held in Clifden on Sunday, May 15 2011, will cater for all levels of cyclists, from those who want to tackle the scenic 160km route along Connemara’s coastal and inland roads, to those who want to partake in the 80km route, or the family cycle of 14km.

The various routes were selected by former international cyclist and TG4 Tour de France commentator, Pádraic Quinn.

“There will be something in this event for everyone”, said Pádraic.  “The scenery along the 160km and 80km cycle will be hard to beat, and we are avoiding busy roads so that riders can enjoy the scenery in a more secure environment”

Young cyclists, whose parents are participating in the 80km/160km cycle, but who may not be comfortable with a 14km cycle, will have a cycle training session for them by the Safer Cycling Initiative.  The SCI will provide bikes and helmets, but places are limited.

Cost of entry for the 80km and 160km routes is €39, it includes food during and after the event, as well as a Tour de Conamara lightweight cycling jacket.  The cost of the family cycle is €10.

Among the participants will be a special guest from professional cycling and some past and present GAA stars.  Joe Deane, Tony Griffin, Paul Earley, Ja Fallon, Sean Ó Domhnaill and others will participate as part of their preparation for the Race the Rás charity event which commences the following weekend.

The Tour de Conamara is supported by the County Galway Sports Partnership, Forum and West Coast Wheelers Cycling Club.  The event is organised by TríSpórt, and you can get further information and register for the event at www.trisport.ie

Tríspórt hope to develop the event in 2012 to be part of an international cycling festival, and even the legendary five-time Tour de France winner, Bernard Hinault, has hinted that he will be heading to Clifden for 2012!

For More Information:
Pádraic Quinn
clubtrisport@gmail.com
087 2537653

PHOTO CAPTION:
Former international cyclist, Pádraic Quinn of TríSpórt, Brian O'Donnell of West Coast Wheelers Cycling Club and Michael Curley of County Galway Sports Partnership at the launch of the Tour de Conamara.