The Donegal landscape was perfected many centuries ago. The glacial movements of the Ice Age have left us a space that is not only stunning, rugged and raw but also the absolute perfect landscape for adventure racing.
Anyone who loves cycling will know that Donegal is Ireland’s Mecca for road biking. Now throw in a stunning run through Glenveagh National Park and a hike up Errigal and you have adventure racing perfection.
Gaelforce North. Photo by Martin Kalvaster
The lads and ladies over at Gaelforce Events know a thing or two about adventure racing. Often regarded as the pioneers of adventure racing in Ireland they know serious adventure when they see it and Donegal is an obvious choice for anyone who wants a to take on something amazing.
Gaelforce North will take place on the 21st of September. This will be the 9th year of this epic race. Starting out in 2011 as one of the pioneering events in Ireland this race is definitely one for the bucket list. Gaelforce North is sponsored by John West who provide competitors with nutritional advice in the lead up to the race and also have some tasty products at the finish line to help with the recovery after.
Gaelforce North. Photo by Martin Kalvaster
Though these adventure races present a challenge one should never feel that it is beyond them. Adventure racing is for everyone and in general if you can run 10k you have what it takes to do Gaelforce North. The race has a choice of two distances – 63km or 45km, of running, cycling and kayaking. The elation competitors feel at completing a challenge like this is something special. This is making memories for ever, in stunning places like Donegal.
Gaelforce North. Photo by Martin Kalvaster
Many of the competitors who take part in Gaelforce North will travel far and wide. Most competitors would come from the east coast of Ireland but there are also many who travel in from as far away as the US and Europe to experience this mighty race.
In 2019 Gaelforce has teamed up with Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health as their charity partner. As part of the partnership participants can donate when registering for the event or become an Everyday Jigsaw Hero and raise vital funds for the charity.
This event is a great way to experience all that is magical about Donegal. You can find out more on www.gaelforceevents.com/en/gaelforce-north
Tags: