Gaelforce 49km event comes to South County

By Aideen O’Flaherty

A HIGH endurance race, which will see competitors cycling, kayaking and running to the finish line, will take place in South Dublin County for the first time this spring.

The Killary Gaelforce event will traverse urban and rural landscapes, starting at Tallaght Stadium and leading down to Bohernabreena Reservoir, and also taking in Kippure Mountain, before coming full circle as competitors cross the finish line in Tallaght Stadium.

Over 1,000 competitors are expected to take part in the event, which is split into a 29km distance race for people who prefer a sprint, and a 49km race tailored to those who prefer to run over longer distances.

Mayor of South Dublin County, Cllr Guss O’Connell, said: “It is great to introduce such an event to the doorstep of so many of our outdoor enthusiasts.

“An adventure race of this type really touches on the unique selling point of this county, where city living sits side-by-side with the great outdoors.”

The course will test competitors’ fitness by encompassing off-road uphill and downhill cycling, before kayaking on Bohernabreena Reservoir and tackling the running track that will lead runners to Kippure Mountain.

Ciara Young of Killary Gaelforce said: “We are really excited to bring Gaelforce to Dublin for the first time.

“South Dublin County has some great terrain that lends itself to adventure.

“Having a goal really helps with the winter training, so setting a target is the key to not losing your fitness over the winter.”

Killary Gaelforce have previously held events in Bray and Connemara, with the Dublin Gaelforce event marking the first time they’re brought one of their adventure races to the capital.

The Gaelforce Dublin Adventure Race will take place on 18 February 2017, with further details available on the Gaelforce website at www.gaelforceevents. com/en/gaelforce-dublin.