The eyes of the cycling world will turn to Northern Ireland as it hosts Giro d'Italia in May 2014, and amateur riders will now have the chance to take on the same terrain as the world's best professionals, with the launch of Curadmir Ulster Cycle three-day sportive.
Once the Giro has returned to Italy, Ulster's rugged landscape will be reclaimed by the riders of Curadmir, meaning 'Champion's Portion' - the feast awarded to the bravest warriors in the battles of ancient Ireland. Taking place over the bank holiday weekend of the 24th-26th May, the fully supported cycling sportive will cover 360 miles in three days, through some of the wildest and most remote terrain in Ulster.
With a multi-stage route designed to be the toughest in the British Isles, riders can enter as teams or individuals but all will need to work together as the aim of Curadmir is to complete rather than compete for the course. Those brave enough to take on the challenge will be rewarded with the sight of Northern Ireland's most beautiful scenery; beginning with a 700m ascent of the Mourne Mountains, the route takes in the iconic Giant's Causeway, Ireland's most northerly point at Malin Head, the infamous Mamore Cap with hairpin gradients of 27%, and the Fermanagh Mountains, where the final hilltop finish will overlook the stunning Lough Erne.
The event will have a rolling base camp, with Rider Villages set up across Ulster to provide for participants' every need, including: tents with mattresses, premium catering, hot showers, physio and massage services and a mechanics tent. Riders will be able to relax and recover in the evenings in the chill-out marquee, where comfy seating and live music will await them.
Northern Ireland's Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster said the event would give amateur cyclists the chance to pit their wits against the elements, just like the professionals taking part in the Giro d'Italia.
"With our spectacular scenery and challenging inclines, Northern Ireland offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable cycling experience. That is why organisers of the Giro d'Italia chose Northern Ireland to host La Grande Partenza or 'Big Start'."
She continued; "Interest in cycling is huge here and I have no doubt that many more will be inspired to take it up once they have seen the Giro d'Italia up close as the riders pass through Northern Ireland from the 9th-11th May. While this event is not for the fainthearted, with 360 miles being covered throughout its three day duration, I know there are many cyclists at home and abroad who will relish the chance to take on the mental and physical challenge it offers. It will also give amateurs the chance to experience what it would be like to compete in a professional race."
Full details of route and facilities are available on the event's very slick website, which features dramatic video footage (think Game of Thrones with Cervélos instead of swords) and some nifty animations that will test your mastery of the scroll button.
Entry to the Curadmir is open now. Prices for the three-day event start from £475 for individuals; an early bird price of £375 is available until midday on Monday 17th February 2014. Single stage options and bespoke packages are also available for teams. Visit www.curadmir.com for further information, and check out the video trailer here.
Curadmir Ulster Cycle 2014
24 May: Stage 1, Rostrevor - Cushendall. 119 miles, 2330m
25 May: Stage 2, Cushendall - Buncrana. 126 miles, 2113m
26 May: Stage 3, Buncranagh - Finn Lough. 106 miles, 2161m
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