NEVER A DULL MOMENT · Gaelforce Dublin. Mountaineering Ireland Winter Meet 12-18 Feb 2017 Taking place in Onich, near Fort William, Scotland, this winter meet will offer several

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As the New Year approaches, it's a great time to reflect on your sporting plans for 2017 and start planning what races and events you want to be part of. In the coming pages, we give you a bumper selection from all over the country and abroad to inspire you for 2016 and 2017. So while you're chilling out over the festive season, start figuring which swims, hikes, adventure races or runs you'd like to be part of.

Compiled by Jonathan Dunne & Mary Finlay

Get listed! If you'd like to have your outdoor or adventure event listed on these pages and in the Sunday Business Post magazine, email: [email protected] with EVENTS in the subject.

Martinhal Winter Holiday Packages Sagres, Algarve I Dec 16-31 March2017 Portugal's Algarve is fantastic for winter activity with the bonus of bright days and warm sunshine. In addition to weeks dedicated to bike, hike and yoga from Dec to March, guests at Martinhal can also create their own trips to include whatever activities they'd like. Facilities at this five-star resort include heated pools, gym, kids'clubs all the way up to teenagers and a spa where adults and kids can relax. (From December through to March, the kids dub and creche is free). www.martinhal.com

The Irish Bouldering League 3 Dec 16, 14 Jan & 11 Feb 2017 The bouldering league is a fun, grassroots competition. Rounds two, three and four take place on 3 Dec (Awesome Walls Cork), 14 Jan (Dublin Climbing Centre) and 11 Feb (Gravity Climbing Centre, Dublin). The competition is suitable for climbers of almost all ability and features 25 boulder problems per round with each boulderer attempting every problem. And there are some great prizes too thanks to sponsors Rab and www. climbing, ie/www.mountaineering.ie

Lynam Lecture 2016 8 Dec 2016 Mountaineering Ireland will host two of Ireland's most active mountaineers, Paul Swail and John McCune for this year's Lynam Lecture in Trinity College. Paul and John are passionate rock climbers with



Irish new routing and exploration high on their priority list. Both have climbed extensively in Europe and America, recently returning from a team free ascent ofYosemite's of the El Capitan test piece 'Freerider'. They will share their perspective on Irish mountaineering. www.mountaineering.ie

Great Outdoors Santa Abseil and Climbing Extravaganza 12 Dec 2016 The annual Santa event takes place at Great Outdoors HQ on Chatham Street. The big man himself will be dropping in as he abseils down the shop front from three stories up, before taking up residence in his grotto.There will be lots of fun and entertainment on the day and everyone is welcome. Party time kicks off around 1pm. www.greatoutdoors.ie

Trail Race: Sugarloaf 10 Dec 2016 This 10km trail run on the Sugar Loaf, Wicklow, is ideal for blowing off the cobwebs during party season, www. facebook. com/lrishTrailRaces

Alan Hinkes talk at Basecamp Ireland 14 Dec 2016 Outdoor retailer Basecamp and adventure tour operator Jagged Globe are hosting a talk with Alan Hinkes OBE at their Middle Abbey Street store in Dublin. Alan is the first British mountaineer to scale 14 mountains over 8,000m and will talk about his adventures from 7pm.

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Entry costs €10 with proceeds going to Mountain Rescue services. www.basecamp.ie

TurfnSurf New Year's Escape 30 Dec 2016-1 Jan 2017 Welcome in the New Year on Ireland's epic northwest coast. Go surfing, sea kayaking or blo-karting. And then enjoy a New Year's Eve party in the lodge with live music. You'll be transported from Dublin to Bundoran, Co Donegal, for two nights B&B and a choice of three activities. All for the bargain price of €99 (standard room)/€119 (private room). www.turnsurftours.com

Martinhal New Year's Party in Sagres, Algarve 30 Dec-1 Jan 2017 If you fancy a combination of festivities and activities to celebrate your New Year, check out Martinhal's big party in Sagres on Portugal's Algarve. The two-night stay includes buffet breakfast, welcome drink, gala dinner and party on New Year's Eve and a New Year's Day lunch. There is use of the steam room, sauna and the Finisterra spa treatment and as you're surrounded by great beaches and the Costa Vicienta National Park, there's no excuse not to get in a bike ride, hike or surf to kick off 2017. www.martinhal.com

The Great Island Kayak 7 Jan 2017 Departing from Marlogue Marina in Cork Harbour, this 27km kayaking event brings paddlers around Great Island, passing

The Great Island Kayak event.

Cobh. The event has three main classes: elites, tourers and doubles, and is open to both competitive and more relaxed paddlers alike, www.facebook.com/ Grea tlslan dKayakRace/

Awesome Walls Women's Coaching 4, 11,18,25 Jan 2017 Taking place from 7pm-9pm every Wednesday at Awesome Walls in Finglas, this is a fun coaching session just for girls! Some of Ireland's top female climbers deliver tips, www.awesomewalls.ie

Bouldering coaching evenings 5, 12, 19,26 Jan 2017 Open to all adults, this bouldering coaching session takes place every Thursday from 7pm-9pm at Awesome Walls. This is a great way to improve your skills, learning from more experienced climbers, www.awesomewalls.ie

Extreme Ireland Mountain Skills 1 7- 8 Jan, 4-5 Feb, 22-23 Feb, 11-12 March, 8- 9 April, 7-8 May, 10-11 June, 8-9 July, 4-5 Aug, 9-10 Sep, 6-7 Oct, 4-5 Nov 2017 If you love the idea of hill walking but your navigation skills aren't the best, a mountain skills course is a must. Mountain Skills I will give you a general introduction to hill walking in Ireland. You'll learn about map reading, mountain safety and hazards equipment and navigation so you'll be safely able to pursue hill walking as a hobby. Extreme Ireland's courses run from Laragh Village, Co Wicklow, www.extremeireland.ie



The Art O'Neill Challenge 13-14 Jan 2017 This event kicks off at midnight and participants finish the next day between 6am and 3pm. This legendary 55km hiking/running event traces the escape route that Art O'Neill and Red Hugh O'Donnell took in 1592 when escaping Dublin Castle. Participants head south over the Dublin and Wicklow mountains and finish in Glenmalure. Run in aid of Dublin Wicklow Mountain Rescue and in association with Great Outdoors, the event caters for ultra runners, hikers and hybrids, www.artoneillchallenge.ie

navigation, and gain experience on steep/broken ground, emergency procedures and mountain rescue. You must complete Mountain Skills 1 first. www.extremeireland.ie

The French Alps Expedition 21 -28 Jan 2017 Ever wanted to try ice climbing? Find out what snowshoeing is all about? Now's your chance on this week-long trip. There are three activities on offer: ice climbing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Each evening you’ll return to a luxury chalet to be fed by a gourmet chef! www.adventure.ie

World Snow Day 2017 at the Ski Centre, Dublin 14-15 January 2017 If you're keen to try skiing or boarding, or you need a bit of practice or advice, get along to the Ski Centre in Sandyford in south Dublin on the FIS (International Ski Federation) World Snow Day. On the day, there'll be cheap lessons and the 10km non-stop Everest Challenge to raise funds for the centre's adaptive ski equipment for folk with physical and emotional special needs, www.skicentre.ie

Extreme Ireland Mountain Skills 2 21-22 Jan, 25-26 Feb, 25-26 March, 22-23 April, 23-24 Sept 2017 This is a follow-up course to Mountain Skills 1. You’ll gain further in-depth knowledge of mountain hazards, and weather conditions. You will also be introduced to the compass and night

Camino talks 2017 28 Jan, 2,8,21, 23 Feb, 7, 10, 14March,5 April 2017 These online and off-line talks by Camino Ways cater to the huge number of people who are keen to hike the Camino de Santiago.The information evenings will give you an idea of the most popular Camino routes, the best dates to travel, the history of the famous pilgrimage and what to bring with you. The talks run at locations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Sligo and Mayo, including the Holiday World Show, RDS Dublin, 53 Degrees North, Outback Jacks and Basecamp. All the talks are free but spaces are limited so register to secure your place, marketing@ caminoways.com/www.caminoways.com

Delphi Detox & Yoga Retreat 10-12 Feb 2017 This weekend includes both invigorating

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and soothing yoga, cleansing teas, nutritious juices, healthy meals, plenty of fresh country air and invigorating forest walks, all within captivating Delphi Valley. Guests will also receive a glorious spa treatment and two hours complimentary use of the Thermal Suite and relaxation area with stunning mountain views. www.delphiadventureresort.com

Mourne Way 10K Night Race 27 Jan 2017 What a cool event to do on a cold, dark January night! This 10km route will be fully lit using flashing strobe lights, so you have no excuses to go off track. There will be marshals all along the course, music pumping, cake and something to drink too! Participants will be bussed to the starting point near Santa's Cottage and will finish at Cloughmore Centre in Kilbroney Park, www.26extreme.com

Biking Blitz 12 & 26 Feb, 12&26 March 2017 Kicking off the 2017 biking season, the first event of this mountain biking series will be held in Ballinastoe, Co Wicklow, and will offer 14km and 28km races. There are two categories to choose from; Baggy Shorts and Super PRO. Racers will then battle it out in Ballyhoura, Limerick, on 26 Feb (17km and 35km), Derroura, Galway, on 12 March {16km and 32km) and Ticknock, Dublin, on 26 March (14km and 28km).The overall winners will be crowned King and Queen of the Irish mountain bike trails centres. www.bikingblitz.ie



Focus Ireland Kilimanjaro Climb.

Gaelforce Dublin.

Mountaineering Ireland Winter Meet 12-18 Feb 2017 Taking place in Onich, near Fort William, Scotland, this winter meet will offer several courses for all levels of experience and ability, from winter walking skills to winter mountaineering skills and winter climbing skills. The meet is open to all Mountaineering Ireland members. There will be lots of craic, music and talks in the evening, www.mountaineering.ie

Focus Ireland - Kilimanjaro Climb 11-22 Feb, 9-20 July, 15-26 Aug, 3-14, 12-23 & 19-30 Sept, 1-12, 10-21 & 17-28 Oct 2017 If you're looking for a great challenge for 2017, what about climbing one of the world’s seven summits? Kilimanjaro is not only Africa's highest point but also is the worlds highest free standing mountain! This itinerary includes seven days trekking on the Machame trail, the most scenic route. It allows for greater acclimatisation and maximises chances of a successful summit attempt. You'll trek through landscapes ranging from rainforest to snow-capped mountains. The trek is a fundraiser to help end homelessness in Ireland, www.focusireland.ie

Gaelforce Dublin 18 February 2017 Urban meets rural in spring 2017 as the newest member of the Gaelforce family of multi-sport races takes place in Dublin for the first time. Choose from 49km or 29km routes as you travel on foot, bike and kayak on a course that takes you from the city limits to south county Dublin countryside and back! www.gaelforceevents.com

Finland/Arctic Circle Expedition 20-27 Feb 2017 Learn Arctic survival skills, cross-country ski and camp above the Arctic Circle in winter and hopefully see the Northern Lights on this amazing trip to Finland. All specialist equipment is included so there's no need to rent/buy expensive sleeping bags, jackets etc. Small groups are guaranteed so you should learn loads! www.adventure.ie



Gaelforce Mountain Run 4 March 2017 Taking place over unmarked routes in the northern Maamturk mountains in wildest Connemara, this event features steep ascents and descents. There are two distances to choose from - 22km and 12km. For the 22km race, you will certainly need to be an experienced mountain runner. However, the 12km option for 2017 is a chance for those of reasonable fitness to get started at mountain running. It is a unique opportunity to access this stunning route as special permission is granted for the event by local landowners. This is the only one of its kind on the west coast of Ireland, www.gaelforceevents.com

Ballyhoura Active Duathlon 4 March 2017 This race takes place in Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Park and consists of a 4km run, a 6km cycle and a 2km run.The route will consist of forest trails, winding tracks and roaming hills with participants enjoying gorgeous views. Mountain bike rental is available from Trail Riders, www. ballyhouraactive.com

Copper Face Jacks Ski Trip 2017 5 March 2017 Now we're pretty sure you'll know if this trip is for you! Love to party hard and ski all day? Then look no further. This year's trip is to Arinsal, just a short stroll from the ski lift, bars and restaurants. There will be a whole programme of nightly entertainment, including Coppers DJs,

iin the Outsider ski tour LiMJDolomltes.

parties, BBQs on the slopes, tobogganing to the closing fancy dress party and a very special guest appearance! Return flights from Dublin to Toulouse, transfers, 7 nights’accommodation, ski lessons, equipment hire, lift pass, and access to all of the Coppers events during the week! Packages start at €899. Strictly 18s and over! 01 -2401774/www.topflight.ie

Runamuck Challenge 11 March 2017 Ireland's original off-road mucky run is all about fun! Choose 5km/1 Okm routes as you slip and slide your way over a belly-laugh-inducing obstacle course which includes hay bales, Tarzan swings, slides and more! www.runamuckchalienge.com

The Race 10-12 March 2017 The Race is a 250km unsupported endurance event across rugged northwest Donegal. To finish competitors must complete 15km of kayaking, 166km of cycling, 5km of mountain running and 64km of road and trail running. It is a huge 24-hour test of endurance. www.therace.ie

Yoga & Wellness Retreat at Martinhal Sagres 12-19 March 2017 This one-week kundalini yoga retreat is all about destressing and learning relaxation and anti-stress yoga sets and meditations. This is for everyone, male or female, fit or unfit. Taking place at Martinhal Beach Resort, near Sagres on

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the Western Algarve and surrounded by the Natural Costa Vicentina Park, you'll also get to enjoy wild cliff walks, golden beaches and fine food. For active types there is lots to discover, from cycling and surfing to horse riding. And if you've kids with you, there is a complimentary kids’ club and creche till the end of March 2017. www.martinhal.com

Outsider ski tour to the Dolomites 18-25 March 2016 Join us on the first Outsider ski tour trip to the Dolomiti Superski area. Designed to thrill and test you, this is a chance to take on four on-piste guided ski tours, including the stunning Sella Ronda and the La Grande Guerra tour, which will visit battle scenes from World War I. The trip costs €999 and includes return flights, transfers, accommodation in a three-star hotel, a six-day lift pass, baggage allowance and four guided ski tours. outsidensitopflight.ie 7(01) 240 1753 and ask for Marco.

Quest Killarney 18 March 2017 This one-day multi-sport adventure race takes place in gorgeous Killarney National Park, along the Kerry Way and in the sublime Black Valley. With a 55km or 33km route to choose from, the race is suitable for all levels of fitness. You'll run, hike, cycle and kayak some of the most dramatic, breathtaking and remote scenery in the world. And when it’s all over you can kick back and enjoy the



famous Japanese hot tubs at the finish line, massages and the legendary after party, www.questkillamey.com

Walk the Line 25 March 2017 This annual fundraising event for Dublin Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team sees participants set off in the afternoon to enjoy a hike from dusk in to dark. There are two routes: The 30km route travels from Stepaside to the Hell Fire Club and back.The shorter 14km challenge ends at the Hell Fire Club with a shuttle bus back to Stepaside. Refreshments are served in Lamb Doyle's afterwards. Guides are available if needed, www.walktheline.ie

Bray 10km Cliff Run 1 April 2017 This 10km run takes competitors from Greystones to Bray in Co Wicklow on a spring evening with stunning views over Dublin Bay.This is no ordinary trail run and the varied terrain of cliff paths, beach and promenade will keep you challenged. Finish the evening with live music, food and dancing at the free after-party! www.gaelforceevents.com

Quest Glendalough Wicklow 8 April 2017 The Quest Glendalough Team has put together routes that are both challenging and inspiring, with rugged landscape and breathtaking scenery, for this Co Wicklow event. There are three different routes options to suit all levels of fitness - 57km Expert, 41km Sport and 19km Mini. Each

will see participants running, cycling and kayaking across the staggering scenery of the Wicklow Mountains and national park, www.questglendalough.com

Night Rider Sportif 8 April 2017 Starting just before sunset, this event will see you cycle into the darkness to enjoy the peace of night-time and, with a bit of luck, the light from the moon to guide you on your way. This event, which features 100km and 60km routes, is not a race so kick back and enjoy a magnificent part of the Wild Atlantic Way, which starts and ends at Killary Fjord near Leenane, Co Galway, www.gaelforceevents.com

TEAR 24-hour Adventure Race 29-30 April 2017 Taking place in Lacken, Co Wicklow, this race sees same sex or mixed teams of two tackle an unmarked course which is made up of five stages including a two-hour sleep zone with shelter. Disciplines include kayaking, mountain biking, trekking/hill running, orienteering and a ropes section, www.totalexperience.ie

Hiking Tours in the Austrian Tirol May to Sept 2017 If you're searching for the perfect hiking holiday for your group or just for yourself and your friends or family, look no further.The beautiful resort of Ehrwald is a perfect destination for hiking, with an abundance of scenic trails at your disposal. Enjoy guided walks for all levels, led by highly experienced local guides.

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This trip costs just €689 per person for seven nights, including return flights, seven nights' half board accommodation, five local guided walks through the Zugspitze area, and a half-day excursion to either Fussen, Neuschwanstein Castle, Garmisch or Munich on either arrival or departure. 01-2401753/www.topflight.ie

Connemara Adventure Challenge and Adventure Duathlon 6 May 2017 This 32.5km race involves trail running, cycling and kayaking and is a great introduction to adventure racing. And if you really don't fancy getting off solid land, Gaelforce has added a 29km duathlon option which drops the kayak section. Both events are followed by a free after-party, so why not make a weekend of it! www.gaelforceevents.com

Women With Altitude 2017 12- 14 May 2017 Women With Altitude is a Mountaineering Ireland initiative to encourage women to take on greater challenges in mountaineering, be they personal, technical or leadership challenges. Organised by an all-female team of Mountaineering Ireland members, it is hosted in association with Gartan Outdoor Education Centre, Co Donegal, www.womenwithaltitude.ie

Trek the Camino with Focus 13- 21 May 2017 Focus Ireland will bring a group on this



incredible pilgrimage journey along the Camino. You'll have the added bonus of knowing that your hike will raise funds to fight homelessness in Ireland too. www.focusireland.ie

Hike to Machu Picchu with Focus 17- 27 May, 16-26 Aug, 13-23 Sept, 4-14 Oct, 18- 28 Oct 2017 This is a chance to experience the Salkantay trail as you make your way to wondrous Machu Picchu in Peru, taking in the fantastic views of lakes surrounded by breath-taking peaks.The 11-day itinerary includes four days walking through tropical forest with snow-capped mountains in the distance. You will also get to see and travel through traditional Andean villages, www.focusireland.ie

Coast to Coast Multisport Race 20-21 May 2017 This event offers lots of different options. There is the epic two-day race which sees competitors traverse Ireland from coast to coast as they travel 300km+ from Enniscrone in Sligo to Newcastle, Co Down. Travelling by foot, kayak and bike, in dark and in light, they will pass through stunning unspoilt rural locations, quaint villages and along The Shannon-Erne Waterway, one of the most famous waterways in Ireland.There are two choices in this race - a two-day option or a non-stop option.

Or you can opt for a two-day cycle sportive, taking in some fantastic road surfaces, stunning vistas through Sligo, Leitrim, Fermanagh, Armagh, and

the epic undulations of the Mourne Mountains in Co Down.

Finally, you can opt for the The Coast 2 Coast Mountain Stage individual event, covering the final running leg of the event. This starts at Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor and finishes in Newcastle. With over 32km of mountain roads, forest tracks, open mountain trails and a summit of Northern Irelands Highest peak, Slieve Donard, to navigate, this isn't a challenge for the faint of heart. www.26extreme.com

Ring of Beara Cycle Kenmare 27 May 2017 This is a chance to cycle one of Ireland's most spectacular peninsulas and embrace the unspoiled beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way. Participants can choose from a 140km or 110km distances and will cycle along a coastal route on the rugged Beara Peninsula. Along the way, they'll pass through picturesque and quaint towns, including Ardgroom, Eyeries, Allihies, Castletownbere, Adrigole, Glengarriff and back to Kenmare to be rewarded with hot food, hot tubs, massage and entertainment. www.ringofbearacyclekenmare.com

Enduro World Series Round 4 26-28 May 2017 The Emerald Enduro presented by Biking, ie will return to Carrick Mountain in the Wicklow Hills for the fourth round of the 2017 Enduro World Series. The best bike riders in the world will complete seven timed technical downhill stages, in a rally

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style format called ’Enduro’. The rider with the fastest combined stage times on the day shall be crowned the winner. Expect big crowds and big atmosphere! www.emeraldenduro.com

Austria Painting Week with Grahame Booth 28-28 May 2017 A wonderful opportunity for painting enthusiasts to take part in a relaxing painting week, learning and honing their skills in the charming Tyrolean village of Ehrwald in the Austrian Alps on the Austrian/German border. You will stay in Topflight's own hotel, the Hotel Sonnenburg at the foot of the Zugspitze Glacier.This trip costs €999 per person for seven nights, return flights, transfers, seven nights'half board, painting lessons with Grahame Booth (www. grahamebooth.com), and a day trip to Ga rmisch. 01 -2401753/www.topflight.ie

Mourne Way Marathon 10 June 2017 Take your pick from challenge, half marathon, marathon or ultra marathon but be blown away by the stunning scenery of the Mournes during this event. All of the routes are fully waymarked and do not cross the tops of any mountains. As with all 26 Extreme events, there will be a high level of support and feed stations en route, www.26extreme.com

Deluxe Hiking in the Dolomites 17-23 & 24-30 June, 2-8 & 9-16 Sept 2017 Enjoy a deluxe hiking holiday in Madonna



di Campiglio, a beautiful resort in the Dolomite mountains.This is a truly beautiful destination for walkers, hikers and groups. Explore scenic mountain trails, spectacular landscapes and some of the most beautiful walking paths in the Dolomites. You will be staying in the four-star superior Cristal Palace Hotel. Soothe your aching muscles in the pool and spa and enjoy stunning views from the hotel's wonderful location.This trip costs from €849pp and includes return flights from Dublin, transfers, seven nights half board, a free six-day Dolomeet card/lift pass (worth up to €85 and covering local transport and some activities for children and families) and five local guided hikes. 01 2401753/www. topflight.ie

Gaelforce West 24 June 2017 The original multi-sport race in Ireland, this event offers a 67km linear course starting at dawn on Glassilaun beach in Connemara and ending in Westport town. Cycling, running on trails, kayaking across Killary Fjord and climbing Croagh Patrick are all part of this incredible journey which will see you crossing the line triumphant and with a huge sense of achievement, www.gaelforceevents.com

Foot of Mont Blanc 3 country Hiking Trip 1-7 July, 26 Aug-1 Sept, 2-8, 9-15, & 16-22 Sept 2017 Chic, sophisticated and boasting a superb ambience, the charming Alpine Italian resort of Courmayeur draws many avid

hillwalkers to its verdant valleys and lush trails each year. Nestled snugly at the foot of the majestic Mont Blanc at the end of the Aosta Valley, hillwalkers of all levels can enjoy access to a vast stretch of hiking terrain. It’s unique position on the border of Italy, France and Switzerland gives you the opportunity to hike in three different countries in the same week! This trip costs from €799 per person and includes return flights to Geneva, transfers, seven nights halfboard in a four-star hotel, three local guided walks, a one-day hiking excursion with guide in the Swiss Alps, and a one-day hike in Chamonix with a guide. 01-2401753/www.topflight.ie

Moxie Adventure Race / 6 July 2017 Starting and finishing at Tulfarris House, the Moxie Adventure Race, on the Blessington Lakes is only 30 minutes drive from Dublin and offers a choice of three courses - 27km, 40km and 60km. It will involve kayaking, biking and running. www.totalexperience.ie

The Gleneagle Run Killarney Marathon 22 July 2017 With a choice of 10km, half marathon and full marathon, this is a chance for participants to take part in an event through amazing scenery. The half-marathon starts en route to what must be one of the most scenic roads in the country to the finish at the Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney. The 10km event starts and finishes at the Gleneagle Hotel and

takes in a loop with the national park near Muckross House. All participants can avail of well-earned massages, hot tubs and a post-race party, www.runkillarney.com

Women's Adventure Race Galway and Adventure Duathlon 22 July 2017 This 27km women-only adventure race is perfect for those new to the sport and a great training race for the more experienced athlete. It takes place around Killary Fjord at Leenane and includes cycling, running/walking and kayaking. The terrain includes trails, forestry tracks, bogland, roads and the deep green waters of the fjord. Tthere is also an Adventure Duathlon which follows the same stunning course minus the kayak section, www.gaelforceevents.com

10 in the Glen MTB Enduro 22 July 2017 Taking place on a loop of approximately 13km at the Rostrevor trails in Co Down, this race involves doing as many laps of the course in 10 hours. Simple! Do it on your own or in a team of two or four. There will be challenging climbs, swooping descents on a mix of single-track and fire road, www.26extreme.com

Newry & Mourne Women's Mini Marathon 23 July 2017 This iconic Newry and Mourne Women's Mini Marathon is a 10k event for women designed by women. This run has been designed with you in mind,



and will challenge you in all the right places. This 10k event brings you into the beautiful countryside that Newry and Mourne has to offer, whilst keeping you running / walking entirely on tarmac and on an ever decreasing gradient.... what more could you ask for?? www.26extreme.com

Family Adventure Tours in the Austrian Tirol 23-29 July; 6-12 Aug 2017 Enjoy the perfect family adventure to the beautiful Austrian resort of Ehrwald. Inspiring scenery, guided hikes and fun activities will make for a truly unforgettable summer holiday.This trip costs €769 per adult and €395 per child up to 15 years old (sharing with two full paying adults) and includes return flights, transfers, seven nights'half board accommodation, seven days Z-ticket (includes many benefits for families), guided family friendly hikes from Monday to Friday, and unlimited use of the Postbus and Summerbus in the Zugspitze Arena. 01-2401753/www.topflight.ie

Dublin City Liffey Swim 12 August 2017 This is the oldest and one of the most prestigious open water swimming races in Ireland. The 2.2km event will see participants race from Rory O'Moore Bridge to the Custom House. This is the only swim of its kind to take place in a European capital city. Often compared to the Grand National, every swimmer has a chance of winning the Liffey because

of the handicap system. Competitors from as young as 14 pit their strengths against 70 year olds. NB You must qualify for this event by participating in a number of open-water swim races, www. leinsteropensea.ie

Women’s Adventure Race Wicklow and Adventure Duathlon 19 August 2017 This women-only adventure race takes place in lovely Roundwood, Co Wicklow. The 24.5km race sees hundreds of women take part. A second course option is the Adventure Duathlon which offers the same stunning route minus the kayak section, www.gaelforceevents.com

Outsider Austrian hiking trip 20-26 Aug 2017 This one-week trip to pretty little Ehrwald in Tirol is a chance to meet like-minded people and stretch your legs big style in the Austrian Alps! There will be 4+ guided hikes including two stages of the famous 'Eagle Walk'trail. You'll also enjoy a visit to Lake Seebensee, a guided glacier hike at the Zugspitze, Germany's highest point. If that's not enough for you, you can get your kicks on the Zugspitze Via Ferrata or go abseiling, climbing or have a go on the local flying fox too (optional extras). Accommodation is in the cosy Sonnenburg Hotel on a half board basis. (Price: €769 including flights. See p34 for more details.) We've room for about 35-40 so get your skates on if you're keen. outsiderfdtopflight.ie/tel. 01-2401753

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Paris2Nice Cycle for Focus Sept 2017 This is a chance to take on an amazing 700km cycle over six days and raise funds to help end homelessness. The epic journey will take you to some of France's most incredible spots. Previous routes went through the Unesco World Heritage Loire Valley, Chateneuf-du-Pape and some of Frances most famous vineyards, and the Roman city of Draguignan, so you can expect some great treats. And don't forget you'll end up on the French Riviera. Anyone for a dip?! You do not need to be a hard core cyclist to take part and will receive help with training. www.focusireland.ie

Connemara Triathlon 2 Sept 2017 Run by the organisers of Gaelforce, this traditional Olympic and sprint-distance triathlon takes place in the magnificent setting of Killary fjord. You'll swim in its waters before heading off on your cycle and run through deep valleys and along the rugged coastline of Connemara. www.gaelforceevents.com

Quest Achill 9 Sept 2017 Previously known as Achill Roar, this adventure race takes place on rugged and lovely Achill Island in Co Mayo with its dramatic mountains, sandy beaches and rugged wild Atlantic coastline. Take your pick from one of three route distances to suit all fitness levels as you bike, kayak and run around the island.



Connemara 3 Triathlon.

And when you're done and dusted, kick back and enjoy the famous fancy dress after party which goes on late into the night, www.questachill.com

Dun Laoghaire Harbour Race 10 Sep 2017 The 2.2km handicapped Dun Laoghaire Harbour Race was first run in 1931, making it the second oldest continuous race in Ireland. For swimmers, winning the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Race is akin to winning an All Ireland final. Entrants swim the harbour's circumference. NB You must qualify for this event by participating in a number of open-water swim races, www.1einsteropensea.ie

Gaelforce North 23 September 2017 With full (64km) and sprint (45km) versions, this running/hill walking, cycling and kayaking event provides a great personal challenge for all adventure racers. Gaelforce North allows competitors to experience some of the wildest and most remote parts of Donegal, including Glenveagh National Park and Mount Errigal. It finishes in the Gaeltacht village of Bunbeg. There will also be full and sprint course Adventure Duathlons (62km/44km) which follow the same course minus the kayak section. www.gaelforceevents.com

The Causeway Coast Marathon 23 September 2017 Known by some as the beaches, bays and cliffs marathon, this event, which

takes place in Northern Ireland, is one of the most scenic in the world. With the addition of the Ultra Marathon distance (60km) there is now an event for everyone from the serious Ultra Runner to the 10k specialists on the day of the event. There are also Marathon and Half Marathon options. There is also a Challenge Walk along the 26 mile route of the Causeway Coast Marathon for all of the avid walkers out there. www.26extreme.com

The Great Fjord Swim 30 Sept 2017 This open-water swim takes place in the deep waters of Killary Fjord surrounded by the mountains of Mayo and Connemara. There are three distances 3.9km, 2km and 750m. The is a unique event with swimmers in the 2km and 750m swims being brought out into the fjord by boat and jumping off to reach the start line! www.gaelforceevents.com

Quest Killarney 70ct2017 The original of the Quest one-day multi-sport adventure races, this October Killarney race is now the biggest of its kind in the world. It takes place in the Gap of Dunloe and Killarney National Park and offers five different routes to choose from so there is simply no excuse not to sign up. Take your pick from 70km Expert, 60km Pro, 50km Semi-Pro, 48km Dual or 27km Sport. All routes include running/hiking, biking and kayaking except the 48km Dual which caters for

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those who aren't keen on the water. See, they've thought of everything! www.ques tkillarn ey. com

The Wall Adventure Duathlon 14 October 2017 Staged from the Silent Valley in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, the WALL Adventure Duathlon will take you on a tour of the Mourne Mountains like no other. Run in idyllic nature trails in the Silent Valley to start off, ride the ups and downs of the bike loop and run through the heart of the Mournes to finish. The race consists of a 3km run, a 45km cycle, and concludes with a 15km run. www.26extereme.com

Tollymore Trail Marathon 11 November 2017 The Tollymore Trail Marathon is the perfect "end of year" trail ultra marathon, marathon and half marathon event. It will be a looped course with participants completing one loop for a half marathon, two loops for a full marathon and three loops for the ultra marathon (40 miles). www.26extreme.com

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NEVER A DULL MOMENT · Gaelforce Dublin. Mountaineering Ireland Winter Meet 12-18 Feb 2017 Taking place in Onich, near Fort William, Scotland, this winter meet will offer several