Gravel Grind West brings you back to a time when there were no roads, only tracks. Our route brings together pilgrim and famine trails that date back to the dark ages. You will be blown away by the beauty of the rugged coastline, the glacier hills of Furnace, and the remoteness of Wild Nephin. You will be grinding your way on tracks less traveled before mankind had his way. It is one of the safest and most accessible types of cycling events in Ireland today.
Raceface host 4 unique routes, it’s just a case of picking a route to suit your fitness and ability .. Remember gravel biking is all about the adventure so don’t be afraid to give one a go.
REGISTER HERE:
https://eventmaster.ie/event/0jDMHzqsA1
Even though technically Gravel Grind West is not a race, we do have Strava segments to race for those who are into the competitive element. All of this info will be available to look over, on your entry pack. The Full Participant information pack will be uploaded to this page at the end of August.
Take a virtual look at the 145k route it covers the terrains for all 4 routes
https://www.relive.cc/view/
A great video by Darragh Delaney on his experiences in the 2022 event.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lh4g-RNMGUc
New to Gravel ?
The 50k Shore route is exactly that, a spin along the shore of Clewbay.. the route suits those completely new to gravel as the route is ridable on a road bike (We would recommend heavy duty tyres) or a standard mountain bike or hybrid.
Want to take a virtual tour of the 50k route ..
Have a look https://www.relive.cc/view/vdORQBpA8rv
Start time 9.40am
REGISTER HERE:
https://eventmaster.ie/event/0jDMHzqsA1
The 75k Bothy
This route takes in the Shore roads and tracks of Clewbay to Newport but then goes on a wild adventure where you will get to experience the Dual Cabbage-ways through the Furnace lakes before making your way to Jamies well for some real off road gravelling. At the Bothy you will be fed and watered but take in the surrounds of the Wild Nephin National park.
The journey home via the Western Way can have some of the most unbelievale views of Wild West Mayo with spectualar vista’s of Lough Feeagh, Clew Bay, Clare Island and Croagh Patrick. The route has some challenging bits but is mostly fun to ride
The final leg home is via the Greenway to the Finish line at the Towers bar & Restaurant at the Quay Westport.
Start time 9.30am
Expected cycling time 3 to 4hrs
REGISTER HERE:
https://eventmaster.ie/event/0jDMHzqsA1
The 110k Wild Nephin
This route has all the same sections as the 50 and 75k routes until you get to the Bothy, the gravel sections from here on in, are longer and more strenous, we go deep into the Wild Nephin National park, taking in all the best sectors.. Being self sufficient is paramount so make sure you have plenty of spares just in case. Wild Nephin is one of the remotest parts of Ireland so phone coverage is very much hit and miss.. Its a great way to unplug and feel the nature around you..
Start time 9.30am
Expect to be out for 4 to 6hrs
REGISTER HERE:
https://eventmaster.ie/event/0jDMHzqsA1
Video captures Nephin Beag and Slieve Carr mountains
Video Captures Slieve Carr onto Western way and the Wild Nephin national park
Video captures terrain Through the forest
The Ultimate Gravel West challenge
Start time 8am
The 145k route is the longest gravel event held in Ireland. Due to the popularity of Unbound, the Rift and Dirty Reiver we have decided to up the ante and host an event to match our international counterparts.
This route is a real Epic basically its 2 events in one with a lap of the Skelp blast route first before doubling back on yourself to the hub at the Quay, Westport. Going North to take in every single track, trail and gravel road from the Sports Capital of Ireland to North Mayo. Fitness levels required to finish this route needs to be high, for most participants they will be pedaling for 6 hours plus due to the severity of the course. To the hardened gravel rider this will be the norm, just pack up well, grind out the hills, take in the views, become one with nature and gravel to your hearts content.
REGISTER HERE:
https://eventmaster.ie/event/0jDMHzqsA1
When its all over, sit back and relax at the Towers bar & Restaurant while looking out at the mistic of Croagh Patrick hoovering over the majestic Clewbay.
FAQ
What kind of bike is best suited.
- Any kind of Gravel bike
- Any type Mountain Bike either Hardtail or Full suspension
- Plus bike
- Fat Bike
- Cyclo cross bike
- Hybrid with suitable tyres.
- We also allow suitable E bikes
All participants please make sure your bike is in perfect working order.
Mandatory kit: it’s imperative all participants bring rain cape, foil blanket, phone, spares tubes, tyre levers, pump and a multitool with chain breaker all these are essential.
Food and water: Plan that you may be out in the wilds for up to 6hrs, bring enough with you that will at least get you to the first food stop.
These events would not happen without the goodwill and support of
Coillte, The Wild Nephin National park, Westport house camping and carvaning, The Great Western Greenway, The South West Mayo development company, Mayo .ie and Mayo county Council.
Sponsors
The Towers Bar and restaurant, Westport Bike shop, Nuasan, Hotel Newport and Marrey Bikes
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