This is a great time of year to set your goals for the season. The recession seems to have brought out the outdoors in lots of people and looking ahead there are lots of great events coming up, including a lot based around the challenge idea and away from simply a pure race.  That’s not to say that the racing calendar is light either with intro racing in February for XC, a Downhill Winter League, Provincial leagues and a full NPS series in both disciplines only around the corner.  For those looking for something a little different here are 3 options to wet your appetite.  All 3 take place before July giving two benefits- something to focus on and getting you into shape for lying on a beach.

WAR Wicklow Adventure Race 17th April 2010

Want an early season goal? This looks great. The 73km course includes a run over Spink walk in Glendalough, bike to Lough Dan, kayak on lough Dan, bike to Djouce, hill run up Djouce and a return bike to Glendalough. There is a shorter race option but that was sold out at the time  we went to press! Competitors take part individually but you will be paired with another competitor upon arrival at Lough Dan. Entry is a €65 for the full race up till the end of March after which it rises by €10. See www.wicklowadventurerace.com for more.

Celtic Extreme 6th-11th June 2010

Ireland’s first multi day mountain bike race takes in some stunning scenery over its 400km length from Ballyhoura to Kenmare Bay via Mallow, the Boggeragh and Dhoire na Saggart mountains and the McGillycuddy Reeks. With 12,000 metres of climbing and nearly the same in descending it’s not for the faint hearted but a full race support package exists including daily luggage transfers, camping with hot showers and food packages to keep you moving over the six days. Prices range from €485 to €695 and include paramedic and rescue backup. Let’s just hope you won’t need it! See www.celticxtreme.com for more.

Gaelforce Cycle West 24 hour race. 19th June 2010

This race was run for the first time in 2009 and we were there to experience it first hand. These guys know how to run races having run the hugely successful adventure races for a number of years. The administration and organization was first rate but while the location was spectacular the track was a bit light on singletrack. However for 2010 this is to be sorted with the appointment of a trail builder and the race had been moved to June to take advantage of the longer evenings. Racers compete as solo individuals or as teams of 2/3/4/5 so there is something for everything. Night time laps are great fun and camaraderie is great as everyone is suffering at the same time. This was a highlight of 2009 for us, make sure not to miss it in 2010.   We will be back, make sure and come and join us.  See www.gaelforceevents.com for more.