No lack of adventure as Dingle provides test

ONLY in the rugged and breathtaking expanse of the Dingle Peninsula would the idioms ‘take a hike’ and ‘on your bike’ hold positive connotations for the 900 people who headed west on Saturday to partake in the spectacular Dingle Adventure Race.

This multifaceted bike, hike and kayak event is for people with a head for heights and an appreciation of fine scenery where competitors are put through their paces in the tough terrain of Chorca Dhuibhne - however, the sense of satisfaction and achievement at the finish make it all worthwhile.

A popular feature of the Dingle Adventure Race is its inclusivity as all levels, beginner and seasoned campaigner alike, are catered for with two routes of 21km and 48km through the charming surrounds of the peninsula. The challenging undulations of places like Conor Pass, Mount Brandon and the Atlantic fringe of Ceánn Cibéal, and Dun Cháoin bring their fair share of pain - but the ‘gain’ is was most definitely worth it for when legs tire and lungs empty, the most beautiful location in the Kingdom comes as a welcome source of encouragement.

A measure of the event’s stature outside of Kerry is reflected by the winners as Cavan’s Killian Heery and Down’s Moira O’Sullivan took the men’s and women’s competitions. The day was also well marshaled as scores of volunteers lined the route ensuring a safe passage for competitors and the swell of praise from every sector of social media is a fitting testament to the organisers.

“We’re extremely happy with the day and not a single complaint did we receive. This is our seventh year hosting the event and we had over 900 people taking part,” organiser, Noel O’Leary said.

“Thanks to the support of local businesses, a sum of €1,800 was also raised for the local charity ‘Grow’. We organised a raffle after the event to help raise money and a big thanks to local businesses that donated prizes. I also want to thank the community, sponsors, farmers and volunteers who helped make the day possible,” concluded Noel.

Oops...Shane Daly, Lispole, filling Corks, Eric Cotter’s bottle at the base of Mount Brandon

Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan Denise Casey, Killarney, competing in The Annual Dingle Adventure Race, a one day multi-activity adventure race which included biking over the spectacular Conor Pass, climbing Brandon, running the coastal roads of Slea Head and Dunquin, along the...