Ride The GRAVEL Classic
Event Information (scroll down for FAQs)
Date: Saturday March 15th
Start & Finish Location: Ryehill Demesne, Monivea, Co Galway H65 AX79
Start Time For ALL Riders: 11.00am
Sign-On Opening Time: 9.30am. You MUST bring your event registration ticket (printed or phone) to 'sign-on'
Distance: 79km
Surfaces: Off-Road 60% / Boreens 30% / Normal Tarred Roads 10%
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Directional Signage
The route will be only be marshalled at some major junctions. Most turns are signposted with a white paint marking on the ground or else a RED directional arrow, however not every turn is marked! It is up to each rider to ensure they follow the correct route by using a gps tracker device/map. If you choose to take a short-cut back to the start it is up to yourself to find the appropriate route.
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Feed Stations
There will be one simple (bananas/water) feed station on the route at the 44km mark. Riders are required to bring whatever food and drink is required to ensure you are self-sufficient. There will be hot savoury and sweet snacks at the finish.
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What To Bring
The nature of this event means that each rider must be self-sufficient and be prepared for every eventuality. Helmet (no helmet no ride!), bike, spare tubes/sealant, water bottles, mobile phone, emergency food/cash, rain jacket, sunblock are the basic requirements.
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Safety
This event is being held on open public roads. It is a self-guided route so you MUST ensure your own safety by using your own judgement and following the rules of the road at all times. Please follow marshals instructions at all times.
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Parking
Car parking facilities are provided free of charge at the start location in Ryehill Demesne. Spaces are limited and riders may be asked to park outside the property on public roads. Please follow marshals instructions when arriving to Ryehill Demesne. When leaving Ryehill please follow marshal instructions.
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Toilets / Showers
There are port-a-loo toilets available at the start / finish area. Toilets are available at the petrol station in Abbeyknockmoy. There are NO hot shower facilities available.​
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Littering
Please be kind to the local community and private land owners who are kind enough to allow us use these areas - please DO NOT litter. Bring your rubbish to the foodstop or back to the finish area where it will be collected.
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Registration Fee
€20 plus booking fee. Additional one-day licence fee applies to non-CI members.
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Registration Link: https://eventmaster.ie/event/DoBAumAcJr
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FAQ
Hopefully the list below will answer questions you may have. If you have any further queries please feel free to contact us - details on the home page.
Why should I do this adventure ride?
RIDE THE GRAVEL CLASSIC is a unique type of adventure event on the Irish off-road cycling scene.
Is this ride all off road?
This cycle is predominantly off-road with 60% of the route 'off-road'
What are the off-road sectors like?
A mixture of compact gravel & grit bog roads, grass, bog turf, boreens, and farm tracks. Riders will occasionally need to dismount to walk over obstacles.
What type of bike can I use?
Any type of off-road bike. Road bikes are NOT permitted.
Are the routes hilly?
No. This is a predominantly flat course, with no climbing. The routes have intentionally been designed to match the Galway Classic, a true 'classics' style, flat, but challenging course.
Will food be supplied?
A basic snack will be provided on route at 44km. Post ride snacks will also be provided. Riders are advised to bring extra supplies. You will NOT pass a shop on the route.
Will there be mechanical support?
We will have a pre ride mechincal check service, however we dont provide in ride support. This is a self-sufficiency ride.
Do I need any special equipment?
Bring spare inner tubes/sealant etc and some extra clothing (gillet/jacket) if needed in the event of a puncture.
Can I park my car at Ryehill Demesne?
Yes. Parking facilities will be provided at Ryehill Demesne for no extra charge.
Can friends and family join me in Ryehill Demesne?
Yes. Friends and family may join you in the car park and post-ride areas within Ryehill Demesne.
Can I register on the day?
No. Registration is only available before the event, online through Eventmaster. Links on our website.
Do I need to sign-on?
Yes. On the day of the event all participants MUST present a valid event booking ticket at 'sign-on' which will be emailed to you after registering. Please print this ticket or bring it on your phone for presentation at 'sign-on'.
Can I get a refund?
As a policy we do NOT offer refunds or deferals for this event under any circumstances. Places may be transfered but only through the appropriate eventmaster channel up to 5 days prior to the event.
How do I transfer my place?
Send an email to support@eventmaster.ie requesting a transfer a minimum of 5 days before the event.
