Wicklow – get ready to saddle up and roll out because Bike Week is back!
From Saturday 11th to Sunday 19th May, Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership is proud to announce the return of this national event. Bike Week promises to be bigger and better than ever, with an array of exciting activities planned throughout the county.
‘Bike Week is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together and embrace the joy of cycling. I encourage everyone to join us for a fun-filled week of activities.’ – Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council
Bike Week in Arklow
The week long celebrations will kick off with a series of free Learn to Cycle taster sessions in Arklow, Rathdrum, Greystones, Baltinglass and Tinahely. These sessions aim to instil confidence in beginners and encourage more people to embrace the joys of cycling.
Wicklow Local Sports Partnership Learn to Cycle class is tailored for children aged 5-12 who are ready to ditch the stabilisers and ride solo. Led by experienced instructors, this is the perfect chance to learn cycling in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.
There will be plenty of other bike action and excitement in Arklow as local man Paul Sutton is also taking to his bike in a separate event which involves him cycling from Cork to Arklow all in one go to raise money for East Coast Samaritans who’s branch is located in Arklow Town. Paul will take on his cycle challenge on Sunday 12th May, arriving back to Arklow at St. Mary’s Park for approximately 4.30pm.
Not realising it would also be Bike week, Paul chose 13th May as it is the first day of European Mental Health Week.
If you already know how to ride your bike but are perhaps out of practice or would prefer to have some company on your rides, South East Road Club Cycling Club meet on Sundays @ 9.30am at Fernhill. They welcome new and established members. Rumour has it they’re a nice bunch.
Check out they’re facebook page here and get in touch as competitions may mean an adjustment to their Sunday meet up.
Over in Blessington, a highlight of the week is sure to be Blessington’s Bike Week Festival taking place on Saturday 18th May, in the car park of McGreals Primary Care Centre from 11am to 3pm. This festival promises to be an extravaganza of cycling fun, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Kicking off with a Funky Disco Yoga, it will be followed by outdoor spin sessions with HD Fitness, a balance bike course, and two Learn to Cycle taster sessions. Attendees can also look forward to face painters, street performers, and a pop-up Let’s Play event, ensuring non-stop entertainment throughout the day. But the true centrepiece of the festival will be Wicklow’s very own Street Velodrome, specially designed for children aged 8 to 14.
‘Bike Week allows us to rediscover the charm of Wicklow’s landscapes while promoting an active lifestyle. We encourage everyone to get out this week and explore Wicklow on two wheels.’ – Aisling Hubbard, Coordinator at Wicklow Sports and Recreation Partnership
For those craving an adrenaline rush, mid-week Mountain e-bike tours promise an unforgettable adventure amidst Wicklow’s breath taking landscapes.
All events throughout Bike Week are free to attend and open to everyone. For more information and pre-registration details, visit www.wicklowlsp.ie
With the many benefits offered by cycling, Bike Week is a great excuse to get involved. Whether you are taking a leisurely ride along a country lane or out on the highways and byways of Wicklow, make sure you let someone know your route, wear appropriate gear and make sure you have a drink with you. Enjoy!
