Help families fleeing conflict
Saddle up this August 20th
Over 6 million people have been forced to flee Ukraine in recent months. With the generous support of the Irish public GOAL teams are working on the ground to deliver urgently needed food, water and shelter to families left homeless by the conflict.
Ireland's cycling community is coming together this August to support the emergency appeal. Join us on Saturday August 20th for GOAL's Pedal West for Ukraine challenge and help raise life-saving funds for families in need.
- When: 9am, Saturday 20th August 2022
- Where: Ballyseedy Home & Garden Centre, Tralee, County Kerry
- Cost: Early Bird €45
Challenge Route
Cyclists who take on the challenge will enjoy 75km of the finest costal routes on the Wild Atlantic Way.
The challenge begins at Ballyseedy Home & Garden Centre before pedalling west through Camp and Annascaul. The route continues onto Inch Beach and Castlemaine, before finishing at Ballyseedy Home & Garden centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing for the 2022 event
Event Ticket
Please bring the confirmation of registration ticket that you received by email when you registered. This can be on your phone or printed out.
What times does the event start?
- The 75km cycle starts at 9am on Saturday, August 20th
- Registration on the day will be open from 8am
- The cycle begins and ends at Ballyseedy Home & Garden Centre
What are the safety rules for the event?
Please remember that Pedal West for Ukraine is not a closed road event and you must adhere to the normal rules of the road;
- Cycling on the route is maximum of two a breast
- The event is a sportive and not a race and you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of others on the road
- Your will receive an event map and key safety details at event sign on
- Marked directional signs will be placed throughout the route and marshals will be evident throughout the route. Please remember marshals are only there to assist. You must check for oncoming traffic at all junctions
- All participants will be provided with an emergency contact number in the case of an emergency on the route. Please note this is not a number for bike repairs
- You are responsible for taking part in the event on a safe and suitable bike. Participants are responsible for their own bike maintenance. There is limited mechanical support system will be in place and will sweep throughout the route. Don’t ruin your enjoyment of your day by turning up on a bike that has not been checked
- Please ensure you have spare tubes in the event of a puncture and do not rely on the emergency number for help with changing punctures etc.
- No earphones permitted
- No tri bars permitted
Remember
No Helmet No Cycle – this will be strictly enforced.
How can I avoid mechanical issues?
The majority of technical issues/bike failures happen in the first 20-30km of the event. This usually happens because cyclists forget to check their bikes or pump their tyres. Avoid the hassle of a mechanical issue by getting your bike looked at and ensuring your wheels are pumped up. Don’t forget to bring spare tubes for your wheels. A number of roving bike mechanics will be there on the day to help out with any issues on the route.
Punctures
Please ensure you can change a puncture and bring spare tubes. It may be some time before support can arrive to a spot where a cyclist may have picked up a puncture so please ensure you can change your own wheel or cycle with someone that will assist you to avoid long delays that will impact on your enjoyment of the day.
Will there be any feed stations?
A feed station will be located on the route and exact details will be confirmed in advance. Water, bananas and sports drinks will be provided. We recommend you also bring also your own supply of cycling gels, bars and drinks.
Will first aid be present?
Ambulances and roving paramedics will be available all day, should anyone require medical assistance it will be administered in the fastest possible time-frame. Please call the emergency contact number provided on the day for medical emergencies.
Is the route marked out?
The route will be marked out with directional signage.
What should I bring?
- A bike (in good condition)
- Helmet
- Water bottle(s)
- Spare tubes and a puncture repair kit
- Mobile phone with credit
- Emergency money & ID
- Energy snacks
- Wind / rainproof top – Weather conditions in the area can change suddenly
- Sunblock – we hope you will need plenty of this!
What happens after the race?
After you cross the finish line there will be a presentation area for some pictures and well-earned food and refreshments! The talented 'SuperCéilí' will entertain the crowds with their blend of Irish music.
All participants should be aware that event photography will be taken throughout the route and used in social media and event promotion.
Leave No Trace
The event operates under a Leave No Trace litter policy. Please respect the Kerry countryside and its residents and bring home your litter. Please do not litter the area with gel sachets, empty bottles or food wrappings etc. We are committed to improving our environmental practices each year which includes reducing levels of packaging, printed materials and use of plastic.
Finally - Enjoy yourself!
We hope you have a great day on one of Ireland’s most picturesque cycling routes!