Gaelforce roars into town

OVER 1,000 brave souls will kayak, cycle and run their way through a challenging course in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains as the infamous Gaelforce event comes to the Southside for the first time.

South Dublin County Council and South Dublin Chamber, in partnership with Killary Gaelforce, are hosting the expansion of Gaelforce on February 18.

Dubs legend Michael Darragh MacAuley joined the South Dublin Mayor, Guss O’Connell and representatives of South Dublin Chamber and Gaelforce to launch the event. 

Competitors go from urban to rural as they race into the Dublin Mountains.

They will pass renowned landmarks and breath-taking scenery while racing through South County Dublin including Tallaght Stadium, the Square in Tallaght, the River Dodder, Bohernabreena Reservoir, and the Kippure Mountains.

Only 20 minutes from the city centre, Gaelforce Dublin is designed to get you back on your feet after Christmas.  

There are two distances to choose from – 29km or 49km. The race covers three different disciplines including cycling, running and kayaking.

The 29km route is suited to those who are after a shorter ‘sprint’ race but want a challenge. While for those looking for the extra distance to push themselves, the 49km race is ideal.

Competitors will cycle to Bohernabreena Reservoir from Tallaght Stadium, where they will kayak across the reservoir surrounded by stunning landscape.

From here they will run over various terrains, and up Kippure Mountain, with its panoramic views of Dublin and Wicklow, before returning to the finish line at Tallaght Stadium.

The Mayor of South Dublin County, Cllr Guss O’ Connell said South Dublin County Council was delighted to support the initiative with South Dublin Chamber.

“It is great to introduce such an event to the doorstep of so many of our outdoor enthusiasts,” he said.

“An adventure race of this type really touches on the unique selling point of this county, where city living sits side by side with the great outdoors.

“I look forward to welcoming the many participants and despite the event being held in February, they are assured of a warm welcome.” 

Sherri Brennan, President of South Dublin Chamber, added: “We are glad to welcome Gaelforce to Dublin.

“Our role is to promote South Dublin. We look forward to welcoming visitors from all over Ireland to see the beauty of our county and to enjoy all that it has on offer.

“Starting in the heart of Tallaght and stretching up into the mountains, our competitors will see the many wonderful sides of South Dublin.”

Ciara Young, of Killary Gaelforce, said they were really excited to bring the event to Dublin for the first time.

“South Dublin County has some great terrain that lends itself to adventure,” she said. “Having a goal really helps with the winter training, as setting a target is the key to not losing your fitness over the winter. Set up a training group, get a group of friends involved, the more the merrier and the better the journey. We have training plans available on our website that people can follow.”

Ciara added: “As the long evenings draw in, the weather gets colder, how do you continue on your fitness journey?

“By setting a personal goal for yourself this January and inspiring those around you to get involved.”

Full details of the event are available on www.gaelforceevents.com/en/gaelforce-dublin.