Westport gears up for the Westportif

The iconic Westportif cycling challenge which will take place on Saturday, July 13 is expected to attract cyclists from around Ireland to west Mayo.

Established in 2012 this event continues to grow in popularity every year, with cyclists travelling from all over the island of Ireland to participate in the cycle and to enjoy the post event hospitality in the beautiful and lively town of Westport.
The Sportif starts and finishes in the stunning parklands of Westport House Estate, leading cyclists toward the Newport road where they will embark on their journey. Participants can choose from two route distances 80km and 150km. The 80km route incorporates a northward journey to the breathtaking Seven Arch Bridge in Newport.

Cyclists will glide through Glenhest and Keenagh, where the awe-inspiring views of Nephin Mountain and Ireland's remotest mountain, Slieve Carr, will leave them spellbound. The return trip to Newport via the Nephin Drive is spectacular, showcasing the beauty of Wild Nephin National Park, the serene Lough Fee, and panoramic vistas of Clew Bay. Cyclists will return via Westport House to the finish line at Westport Quay.
Organisers say the 80km cycle is accessible to leisure cyclists of all abilities while the 150km route will offer a good test for the more experienced rider.
The first 80km of this route mirrors the 80 km route as already detailed. After the midway food stop at Westport Quay a scenic ride along Clew Bay shores to Louisburgh awaits, followed by an inland
adventure through the iconic Doolough Valley, one of Ireland's most photographed roads. Cyclists will take in the stunning Ashleigh Falls, and as they pedal their way back to Westport, the sight of Croagh Patrick and entry back into Westport House estate will signal the conclusion of their challenge.
Deirdre Clarke, event organiser for the Westportif, says plans are in full motion for this year’s event which is taking shape to be the biggest yet.

Registrations are open at www.westportif.ie and Deirdre encourages interested cyclists to sign up as soon as possible to avoid missing out. She adds that thanks to the generosity of Portwest, the main event sponsor, the first 500 registrants will receive a Westportif branded t-shirt and a Portwest branded micro towel along with a fabulous event medal for all participants.
The Westportif is a joint venture between Westport Covey and Western Lakes Cycling Clubs and it is an important fundraiser both for the clubs themselves and for their nominated charity partner each year.
This year’s chosen charity is Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation, which provides free of charge palliative care services to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families enabling patients to live out the remainder of their lives in comfort and dignity.