Terrific terrain for one of Ireland’s toughest Triathlons

The magical and mythical terrain on the Erris peninsula in North County Mayo is set to host one of Ireland’s toughest and most gruelling triathlons on September 18th when over 250 national and international athletes compete in the Gateway Blacksod Point Challenge.

This national series triathlon on the most westerly tip of Europe showcases some of the most stunning scenery in the country with rolling sand dunes, splendid Atlantic vistas and dramatic sea cliffs providing a spectacular backdrop along the race route.

The Blacksod Point Challenge involves a 1500m endurance swim in Blacksod Bay, a forty three kilometre cycle to Belmullet town, passing the highest point on the Erris peninsula and an amazing ten kilometre run across the sand dunes of Falmore. Organised by the Kilmore Triathlon Club, this stunning event has being described by previous winners as one of the most challenging and demanding sporting events in Ireland.

“The interest in this year’s event has been phenomenal as the triathlon continues to grow every year. The sport of triathlon is now one of the fastest growing sports in Ireland. We now have competitors coming from all over Ireland, the UK, New Zealand, Germany, Northern Ireland and even as far away as the USA,” stated race director and secretary of the Kilmore Triathlon Club Jason Ó Mongáin.

“The Gateway Blacksod Point Triathlon Challenge is now the biggest multi sporting event in North Mayo and we’re delighted that so many people will be spending the weekend in the region,” commented Ó Mongáin.

The Gateway Blacksod Point Challenge has proven to be a massive boost to the local economy since its inception in 2008. Families and friends of the competitors all travel to the region for the entire weekend with the race status now recognised nationally and internationally.

The Blacksod Triathlon takes place on Saturday September 18th and anyone interested in the event can contact the Kilmore Trialthon Club at www.kilmoretriathlonclub.com or kilmoretri@gmail.com.