WITH THE aim of cycling through all of the 32 counties in 32 hours over the next few days, a group set off as dawn broke in Listowel, Co Kerry, yesterday.
The idea is to finish the 600-mile cycle in Waterford tomorrow. The group includes four women.
The cycle challenge is in aid of the Irish Wheelchair Association and the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. An Post is supplying cycling gear and equipment.
The event is being organised by cycling enthusiast John Behan, who three years ago organised the successful Mizen Head to Malin Head challenge in 21 hours.
“Weather conditions will be a major factor on the trip but most of the riders have done difficult challenges previously, so they are mentally prepared for the challenging three days,” said Mr Behan. “We estimate that each rider will drink about 20 litres of fluids on the road and burn about 20,000 calories, with each rider losing 5-6kg each.”
Today’s ride starts in Sligo, covering the North before ending in Navan, Co Meath, after 220 miles. The 32 County Challenge’s final route covers the east, ending in Waterford after 130 miles, traversing eight counties.