2nd Annual Lough Mask Challenge

On Saturday, May 10th the 2nd edition of the Mask challenge will take place, one month earlier than last year to avail of a gap in the calendar. Get out your old bike and dust it down, your challenge is to cycle around scenic Lough Mask, starting and finishing in Ballinrobe.

“This trip is a total of 65k/38 miles, a doable task for most people. There is plenty of time for most people to get fit enough to do this challenge,” said Padraig Marrey of Western Lakes Cycling Club, the organisers.

“People around the South Mayo North Galway area have for years cycled this route but under no real banner. Now we expect all shapes and sizes to have a go at the official Lough Mask Challenge and we are even having a ‘fancy dress’ section and a prize, too, for the most impressive vintage bike.

Registration is on Saturday, May 10th, from 9-10am at the Western Lakes Cycling Centre with the event to roll off at 10.15am

For more details, contact Padraig Marrey (087 7992857, or email (padraigmarrey@yahoo.co.uk ), or any member of Western Lakes Cycling Club.

Training Schedule and Tips for Mask Challenge May 10th  

 March

Week 1 &2: aim to do 2 spins of 60mins per week

Week 3 &4: aim to 3 spins, 2 of 60mins and one of 90mins preferably on a Sunday

April

Week 1 &2 : same as last 2 weeks of March but aim to increase total time on bike in one week by 60mins

Week 3 & 4 : same as the last 2 weeks( 2x60mins and 1 x 90+mins) but aim to increase total time on bike in one week by 90mins for total time of 5hrs

May

Taper down

With only a few days to go to your challenge around Lough Mask, now its time to start tapering down.

Only go out for a 2 short spin with the last on the Thursday evening no longer than one hour.

This challenge will see all types having a go from people who put in weeks of training to ones who will just turn up on the day, either way cramming a load training in the last few days is a big No No.

It’s a case of either being fit or hoping for the best on the day, as putting your body under stress in the days prior to the event will only leave you exhausted and unable to do the event enjoyable.

Things to check in the days leading up to your challenge.

For Novices I would recommend that you visit the doctor to get checked out, it’s only a pre-causationary measure.

Bike: Make sure your bike is in good working order, tyres well pumped, brakes and gears working and that it fits you are properly. Visit your local bike shop if you are unsure. Bring spare tube, pump and some snacks for the journey. And carry a water bottle as fluids are very important.

Clothing: bring clothes that are light and that can be easily taken off as you cycle, you will heat up rapidly. I would recommend shorts especially with a padded seating for added comfort. Gloves are a good idea as hands and shoulders take a lot of batting from the road surface. Bring a rain cape or light outer jacket as you can cool down when you stop at the designated stops.

Helmets: are a must for this challenge as road and personal safety is to be clearly adhered to.

Remember to get plenty of sleep in the days prior to the event.

Eat good quality food during your build up.

Make no major changes to bike, eating habits etc in the days coming up to your event.

During the event.

Aim to cycle with people who are of the same ability as you, this makes the challenge much more enjoyable. Pace yourself throughout the event, if you like you can up the pace after half distance. Drink regularly at least every 15 mins.

After the finish take on more fluids and food and do a little stretching of all the major muscle groups this will help to prevent soreness the next day.

Finally enjoy yourself, you did a good deed for others in doing the Mask Challenge