Tour of Louth

In June 2008 Cúchulainn Cycling Club staged the very first Tour of Louth endurance cycling event. Around 70 cyclists took part in what was hailed as a major success. It surely says something about the state of cycling at the minute and also about the success of the club that over 380 cyclists lined out on Sunday morning to roll out for the 2017 edition and the 10th running of the Tour of Louth.

2 groups of cyclists left their departure point at the DKIT Sports Centre on Sunday morning in brilliant bright sunshine to tackle one of the 2 possible routes, a 45km route and a more testing 105km route. In line with the inclusive ethos of the club the event is designed to cater for all abilities of cyclists

The 45km route took the cyclists from Dundalk to Ardee via Castlebellingham, Kilsaran and the new link road and back home to Dundalk via the old Ardee road.

The more challenging 105km route took the cyclists to Ardee and back and then they carried on straight through 'the town' and headed out towards the beautiful Cooley mountains. The first major obstacle to confront them was the infamous Jenkinstown Hill where even the most seasoned cyclist ignores the hocus pocus of the magic hill to concentrate on the huffing and puffing on the monster that is Jenkinstown. Then on to the Long Woman's Grave for a short food stop before descending back to sea level via Davy's hill and on through Omeath and Carlingford before turning for home.

As could be evidenced by the smiling and laughing of the large crowd of weary cyclists who gathered in DKIT Sports Centre to avail of the post-cycle food a good time was had by all.

A special congratulations must go out to the Chairman of the Leisure section of Cúchulainn Cycling Club, Mr Jason Boyle, on his management and planning for this year's event. With the help of his team he created an event that would surely be the envy of any cycling club in the country.

Roll on 2018 where an even better Tour of Louth awaits.