Mizen Malin bid looking good

The first proper Try out for participants who want to have a go at making the squad for the Mizen to Malin challenge in under 20hrs looks to have started of very encouragingly, when a group of 25 cyclist completed the 86miles at an average speed of 20.9mph on a course that took in Claremorris, Knock, Charlestown, Carracastle, Swinford, Ballyvary, Castlebar and back to Ballinrobe.

All the participants performed well considering that their preparation this winter was hampered due to the harsh weather conditions since Christmas.

This time round the weather condition were pretty good with a light Southerly wind with a little rain, perfect for the time of year.

Ballina’s Football and sporting fanatic Jimmy Durcan was on hand to provide back up to the squad, and Damien Delgado Mc Greal drove the lead car, protecting and directing the riders from the on coming traffic.

If a time is to be set under 20hrs for the route, then the riders will have to average 19.3MPH non stop for the 370 mile challenge, a staggering fact for any athletic achievement.

The next camp will be held on Saturday the 14th & 15th of March, it will be 2 day training camp , spin one will start in the evening and finishing 6hrs later in the pitch black of night, the next morning spin 2 will start at first light the group will spend 3.5hrs training in the hills of Mayo, giving a grand total of 10hrs training in 18hrs.

The official launch will be held at 2pm on Saturday 14th of March see below.