What is the Westportif Cycle challenge?
This Sportif (leisure cycle) has 2 distances - 80k to suit all abilities and 150k for the more seasoned cyclist. The event is set over rolling terrain, taking in most of the picturesque parts of Mayo. The bike sections are all on sealed rural roads but do bring a spare tube and pump, as you need to be self-sufficient in the event of a puncture! Remember to fit at least one water bottle into your bike, as it’s important to take on fluids as you ride!
How long will it take to complete the course?
Advanced (competitive cyclist, experienced sportif/leisure cyclist or fitness enthusiast and extremely active every week). We expect the first participants to finish the 150k route in around 5 hours and the 80k in about 2.75 hours.
Intermediate (starting training with a good fitness level, maybe training twice or three times a week, but have never tried a Sportif event before). We recommend the 80k route. Intermediate-level cyclists are expected to complete 150k in around 6 hours and the shorter 80k event in 3.5hours.
Beginner (starting from a low fitness level, which is a new challenge for you). We would recommend that you start by aiming to complete the 80k route within 5 hours.
All of the above estimated times are actual cycling times on the bike and don’t include stops.
Start Times:
- 150k – 09:00
- 80k – 09:30
Finishing times at the Quay Westport:
- 150km between 14:00 – 17:00
- 80km between 12:15 – 14:30
Westportif sign on time and location:
- Friday 7th July, Location to be announced
What age do I have to be to enter?
Participants under 18 must register with a parent or guardian. The same parent or guardian must accompany the participant around the route. 14 years of age is the minimum age limit.
What type of bike do I need?
Bicycle Guide
Safety first; you should ensure that your bike is properly serviced, with working brakes; you want to feel safe and confident on your bike. You must obey the rules of the road at all times as the event is entirely on open roads. (The good news is the roads are quiet). Wearing of a helmet is compulsory – no helmet, no ride!
Bike choices in terms of speed:
• A road bike (racer) would be the fastest choice.
• Hybrid with straight handlebars would be next
• A mountain bike with slick tyres would be slower.
• A mountain bike with knobbly tyres would be the slowest of all.
Bike mandatory kit:
• Pump
• Spare tube
• Tyre levers
• Allen key set (optional)
What other items may I need?
You could rent a bike in Westport (Westport Bike Shop) https://westportbikeshop.ie/ but book early to avoid disappointment.
What if I enter the event and then cannot attend?
If you cannot attend, please email info@westportif.ie and we will be happy to defer your entry to the following year.
Will there be food and water stops?
Yes. The details will be advised closer to the event.
Can I practice on the course beforehand?
Of course! We encourage you to use the course maps to practice on this most picturesque route in advance.
Do I have to navigate on the Course? The route will be well described and well-marked with signs/arrows; there will be marshals on all the major junctions but do please familiarise yourself with the event course and route maps in advance, or better again, bring a copy of the route map on your phone where it can be easily accessed if in doubt. A map will be emailed to all competitors in advance of the event and will also be available on our website and social media pages.
Will the event go ahead if there is bad weather?
If the situation arrives that we are unlucky enough to get weather that may be dangerous to participants, the organizers may have to make a decision to cancel, shorten or take out certain sections of the course, and this will only be decided on the morning of the event. Rider safety will always be our priority.
What safety rules must I follow?
Please always obey the event organisation, including the Red Cross, Gardaí, Volunteers and all race personnel and always adhere to the rules of the road and Cycling Ireland rules.
Strictly No IPods or Headphones; Safety is a huge priority and failing to hear instruction or the sound of oncoming traffic can cause serious accidents to you, fellow participants and to the general public.