2011 MARACYCLE Dates Announced
Co-operation Ireland’s flagship bike challenge, Maracycle, will return for the second year, over the weekend 25 & 26 June 2011. The 200 mile 2 day bike ride will start in Dublin on the Saturday morning and follow a route to Belfast, avoiding main roads and heavy traffic where possible. Discussions are currently underway on the route, and we may make a few changes from the 2010 route, which incorporates a circular route, instead of the same route from and to Dublin and hopefully avoiding some of those big hills, at least on one day of the weekend.
Cyclists will be able to take up the option of cycling one day on either the Saturday (Dublin to Belfast) or Sunday (Belfast to Dublin), both days (Dublin to Belfast to Dublin), or a Minicycle 50 miles option starting or finishing in Dundalk.
Transport and accommodation packages will be available.
Cyclists are encouraged to raise funds through their participation in Maracycle to support Co-operation Ireland in its peace-building work with schools, youth clubs and community groups, giving people from diverse communities within Northern Ireland and from both sides of the border, a chance to meet and spend time together working on joint projects, so that they can learn to accept and respect each others traditions and cultures. Cyclists are also encouraged to raise funds for local charities.
A network of back-up services will be available throughout the event. Support from the local communities, first aid organisations, motorbike marshals, repair and radio services will help ensure the professional organisation and safety elements of the event.
Further details should be available early 2011
“We are delighted with the number participating in this new Maracycle event. We have spent time and effort to ensure that the cyclists have a safe an enjoyable trek. We are working with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, An Garda Síochána, a range of emergency services, local authorities and a host of volunteers to ensure that the event is a success for all the participants.”
