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The Mondello24 Cycle is an ultra-cycling experience like no other in Ireland. Taking place at the famed International Mondello Race Track in Kildare across the weekend of June 22nd & 23rd it is one of the most fun and exhilarating cycling events you can take part in this year. Whether you plan to go it alone as a solo, bring a friend as a team of two or gather a gang of four or eight to share the experience with, here are my top five reasons why you should consider signing up to it.

1. It’s 24 Hours of Cycling & Fun

Imagine spending a full 24 hours cycling on a secure, car-free track. No need to worry about route planning, dodging potholes, or navigating through traffic, just pure cycling bliss with a host of other eager cycling enthusiasts. This event offers the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the exhilaration of bike racing alongside a few hundred other cyclists. Whatever way you break down the time on the track as a solo, pair or team is up to you, there are lots of strategies you can choose from depending on your own fitness, ability and competitiveness.

2. Awaken Your Senses As you Race Through The Night

Racing through the night may initially feel intimidating, cycling, let alone racing in the dark can seem like venturing into uncharted territory. However, if you’ve never experienced it, you’re truly missing out. Cycling in the dark offers a unique and exciting experience. While you might assume you’ll ride slower compared to daylight hours, you’ll likely surprise yourself. As you immerse yourself in the darkness, your senses awaken, allowing you to truly see, hear, and feel the environment around you on the track as you whizz around on two wheels.

3. Camaraderie & Community Spirit

The enjoyment both on and off the track is palpable, as resting riders and crew gather in their own clusters and communities within the pits or garages that border the main supporter area of the track. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with buzz, excitement, and a strong sense of camaraderie, is what sets this event apart as a truly unique experience in Ireland. Whilst everyone is focused on their own race, there’s a prevailing spirit of encouragement and support among participants, all aiming to reach the finish line at 12pm on Sunday afternoon. And yes, such is the atmosphere and party vibes that it’s not uncommon for people to be seen tucking into bag of curry chips at 3am before catching a nap in the pit beside the track.

4. It’s A Challenge, An Achievable Challenge

It is a challenge, an achievable one, but a challenge nonetheless, testing your endurance, stamina and mental fortitude whether going solo or as part of a team. Crossing the finish line after completing a 24-hour bike race  gives you an unparalleled feeling of accomplishment. It’s a tangible reminder of your hard work, dedication, and commitment to a goal, leaving you with a sense of pride and fulfilment that lasts long after the race is over.

5. It’s Social, Make New Friends

Mondello24 Cycle is very social,  you will undoubtedly make friends for life on your team or with other riders on the track as you journey through the weekend together. Or maybe you will enjoy your time in the company of others in the pits as you share stories from the track and relive your efforts as you rest and recover before getting on your bike again.  All the while, creating memories that will last a lifetime well beyond the 24 hours spent trackside which will ultimately widen your circle of like- minded people who enjoy and embrace cycling and the thrill of adventure.

I’ve been at this event for the past three years on and off the track, as event MC each year. In 2021 I was also support crew for the Women’s solo champion Karen Cassidy. In 2022 I raced as part of an 8 person team with the Cycling Ireland Women’s Commission and in 2023 raced with a Cycling Connacht Women’s team.  I have seen what it’s like to experience this event on both sides of the track and it was one of the best weekends of the year each time, if you are thinking of doing the event bite the bullet and get signed up then get yourself on your bike and get training for the fun that lies ahead.

If this insight has whet your appetite and you want to really get the inside track on Mondello24, then tune into the Tri Talking Sport podcast with Karen Cassidy (Ep 67) HERE and the Women’s Commission Episode (No 85)  HERE. Get in touch with the team at Mondello24 Cycle HERE

Feel free to the get in touch with me if you want any additional information on the event! I look forward to seeing you there and cheering you over the line on the 24th June 2024!