Plans in place for Hilly Leisure Tours

There will be again four routes to chose from which should provide a challenge for all riders. The 'big' event on the day will be the infamous Mourne Sportive, described by some as the toughest one day tour in Ireland.

This 169 km route will take riders into the heart of the Mourne Mountains climbing over many of its famous peaks including Coyle’s Hill, Spelga, Windy Gap and Dree Hill. Entry is limited to 60 riders for the Sportive.

Dromara Cycling Club expect in excess of 200 leisure riders to take up this challenge.

As well as the Sportive, we are also holding three shorter Hilly events, the Hilly 125, Hilly 85 and the Hilly 60. The Hilly '125' is now in its 22nd year and proves to be the most popular distance for the leisure riders.

All four routes share a common tea stop which, as per last year, will be located at Leitrim GAA club. The Sportive riders will also have another tea stop at Meelmore Lodge in the heart of the Mourne Mountains. All events will start and finish at Dromara Football Club

Juniors - As part of the day's events we are offering a Junior Hilly Tour using the Hilly '60' route. This route is well suited to junior riders (those aged 12-16) and riders will be escorted by senior club riders to and from the tea stop at Leitrim. The fee for the juniors is 5.

Insurance - The fees above are for those who hold a current Cycling Ireland or CTC licence (or equivalent). Proof of insurance (membership card) will be required on the day.

For everyone else there is an additional 1 fee for day insurance OR riders can obtain a Cycling Ireland Leisure Licence which will provide personal accident cover for the remainder of the year.

There is an offer on for that Leisure Licence which is 10 (or €10) for those riders who have never had a Cycling Ireland licence in the past. The insurance fee is to be paid on the day.

Tea stops - The tea stops are only open for a fixed period of time. Leitrim GAA tea stop will be open from 10am-2pm. Meelmore Lodge will be open from 1:30pm to 4pm.

And at the end...? At the finish all succesful participants will receive a commerative gift and for those doing the Sportive they will also receive a certificate with their time printed on it.

There will also be hot food at the football club as well as use of the public bar. The football club can provide parking, showers and changing facilities for both men and women.