Gaelforce February Newsletter

Next training weekend - March 19th

Well the first training weekend took place at Killary last weekend and was a great success seeing 19 people take fitness tests, set training plans and make a lifestyle change that will see them complete an adventure race.

The next training weekend is on the 19th of March. This is for those of you with a good level of fitness, who want to see and experience sections of the course, get a kayak lesson and have your questions answered by Irish adventure racing veteran Brian Keogh!

Information on training weekends can be found here. To book contact Linda on 095-43411or adventure@killary.com

Gaelforce Events nominated charities 2010

Competing in Gaelforce West or the Connemara Adventure Challenge provides a great opportunity for you to raise money for our nominated charities.

The 2010 charity partner for Gaelforce West is Big Brother Big Sister Ireland.

This is a mentoring programme for young people aged 10-18, which matches an adult volunteer with a young person in need of support and friendship. BBBS is based on the idea that a created relationship between an older and younger person will act to prevent future difficulties or be a support to a young person facing adversity in their lives.

For more info on how to fundraise or become a mentor visit www.bbbsireland.ie or call 091 528325

The 2010 charity partner for the Connemara Adventure Challenge is Barnardos Ireland.

Barnardos supports children whose well-being is under threat, by working with them, their families and communities and by campaigning for the rights of children.

To receive your free fundraising pack, please contact Liz on 01-7080480 or email: liz.murray@barnardos.ie

The Gaelforce 24hr Cycle Challenge

Are you and a group of your friends looking for a weekend away with a difference?

The 24hr Cycle Challenge takes place on the weekend of the 19th of June.

Get a group of friends together and come camp in one of the most stunning spots in the West of Ireland, take part in the road bike or mountain bike challenge, meet new people and do something different!

The event is open to soloists, duos and groups of 5 or 10 competitors. If you are coming with a group each person only has to complete the route once to qualify. The team works on a relay system so there is only one person on the route at any time. Once each person has completed a lap it is up to each team member how many laps they wish to complete.

Entries are now open so sign your group up today.

Accommodation for events

Due to the large numbers of participants staying in the local areas around our events we would advise you to book early to ensure you can get accommodation.

To make it easier for you we have compiled listings of local accommodation providers for each event.

For accommodation information for the Connemara Adventure Challenge click here.

For accommodation information for Gaelforce West click here.

For accommodation information for the 24hr Cycle Challenge click here. Camping is included in the registration fee for this event but for those of you who want more creature comforts there are options available!

Volunteering for the Connemara Adventure Challenge

Are you looking at entering Gaelforce West but not quite sure how an adventure race works? Are you planning on supporting friends or family at Connemara Adventure Challenge but would like to be part of the action! Or just looking for work experience in event management or the outoor industry?

Well why not head west for May 8th and join our Gaelforce Events crew and see what goes on behind the scenes!

Roles are varied, but each and every crew member has an important and valued role to play at the event. It maybe an early start but it will be a fun day out!

So if you are up for seeing the event from the other side, can help keep competitor spirits high and want to have a good day out, fill out the volunteer registration form today!

Forum, blog, videos

We have a couple of interactive elements now available on the Gaelforce Events website.

There is a forumwith topics on all areas of the events. We encourage you to use this resource to gather info from past competitors on areas such as bike choice, training etc.

Aidan Cooney, of TV3’s Ireland Am has taken up the challenge of getting fit for the Connemara Adventure Challenge. There is a blog which is currently being updated by Carl, his personal trainer. If you are training for the Connemara Adventure Challenge and want to see how others are getting on check this out.

Finally we have a video section. We have just uploaded videos from Ireland Am where Aidan Cooney’s panel of experts are advising him on starting training, how to cook healthy foods and how to train for the Connemara Adventure Challenge.

Competitor deals

Picked up an injury in training? Physio Fusion are offering special deals to competitors who have signed up to any of the 2010 Gaelforce Events on their standard treatment fee.

Visit www.physiofusion.ie for further details.

Boot Camp Ireland are offering entrants of the Connemara Adventure Challenge a €20 discount on any 8 week session.

Visit www.bootcampireland.com for more information