Trim is the Departure and Arrival Town for Ultracycling Endurance Race for Second Successive Year.
Former Champion Zamboni Bids for Another Title in Europe’s Toughest Bike Race
The Former champion Valerio Zamboni from Monaco has confirmed that he will return to Race Around Ireland when the 11th edition Europe’s departs from Trim Castle on Sunday, August 25th.
Final preparations for what has been described as Europe’s toughest endurance cycling challenge are continuing with many of the world’s best racers getting set to do battle over five days in the 2,200km non-stop bike race around the circumference of Ireland at the end of August.
For the second year, the event will depart from the historic surroundings of Meath’s Trim Castle where it will once again be an integral part of the town’s ‘Salmon of Knowledge Festival’, a key cultural celebration of the area’s rich history.
Along with the solo racers, whose extraordinary feats of athleticism combined with remarkable sleep deprivation have made them legends in the cycling world, teams of two-, four- and eight- racers are also set to race for separate class honours. Riders will cross the finish line at Trim GAA Club to complete their non-stop loop of Ireland.
Announcing the return of Race Around Ireland to his town, Noel French, Cathaoirleach of Trim Muncipal District said: “This is one of the toughest sporting events in Europe, let alone Ireland and it’s a great privilege to play host to the event at the beginning and the end of such a tough bike ride.
“The rich heritage and beautiful location of Trim is the perfect complement to an event which attracts some of the world’s most extraordinary, and inspiring, athletes.”
Chairman of the Trim Tourism Network, Michael Hughes commented: “The Salmon of Knowledge Festival is, like Race Around Ireland, an event of developing heritage which celebrates the rich history of our region. We’re honoured to once again be able to showcase Race Around Ireland as part of our festival activities.”