Sunday, 21st August 2016 will see the return of the fourth Étape Connemara. This popular chip timed cycle sportive attracts riders both nationally and internationally taking in the stunning rugged landscape of Connemara. Cyclists can choose from a 100km or a 150km course and is open to both club and leisure riders. The event is all in aid of Croí, the Heart and Stroke Charity based in Galway. In the last three years the Étape has helped to generate much needed funds for the charity and already there is huge interest in this year’s event with over 100 cyclists already registered. This year Étape Connemara is delighted to announce the appointment of Edwina Treacy to the role of Fundraising Events Manager with Croi Heart and Stroke Charity and welcome Brian Clancy to the role of Race Director for the 2016 event.
Pictured at the launch of the event Gavan Hennigan Irish Extreme Environment Athlete said “It is great to be involved with Étape Connemara 2016 there is nothing like a challenge to get people motivated and involved!” Hennigan is currently training for his next mammoth adventure completely solo and unsupported, bidding to be one of only a handful of people on the planet to have rowed the Atlantic Ocean.
Participants compete against the clock to complete the challenging 100km and 150km routes through Connemara, where their finishing time becomes the target to beat the following year. For individuals, this is a great opportunity to challenge yourself against some of the best club cyclists in the country. For clubs, Étape Connemara encourages members to work together and push themselves without the pressure of an official race, but still getting an official time!
Departing from Croí House in Newcastle, Galway, cyclists will take in Moycullen, Oughterard, Maam Cross, The Maam Valley, Clonbur, Finny, Lough Na Fooey before heading back to Galway for a well earned BBQ at Croí House.
Croí expect this year will be the biggest Étape Connemara to date with 500 cyclists predicted to take part. Any individual or club wishing to take up the challenge and help support Croí should contact Croí Fundraising Events Manager, Edwina Treacy, Tel: 091 542404 or Email: edwina@croi.ie. The entry fee is €45 early bird until July 31st.