My 2022 season kicked off just under 2 weeks ago, the first race of the season was a cross country mountain bike race in Ballinastoe Woods, Co. Wicklow. This 16km trail is a one-way system through many different types of challenging terrain. I took part in the Expert category which covered 28km of trail. I was deep in the Red from beginning to end. The calibre of athletes was exceptional and left me feeling very ordinary. I managed to cross the line in 64th position out of just over 130 starters. I never expected to win, but I thought I might be able to finish a bit higher up. Still, though it was a great event and it’s always a good day when I’m out on my bike.
The Biking Blitz series event will have future rounds across different locations in Ireland. The next round is Sunday (27th Feb) in Ballyhoura. This is my local training ground and I hope to do a little bit better.
This year, I am focusing more on mountain biking and adventure racing as my racing playlist for 2022 includes the Hardman half in Bantry and their new Olympic race in Ballinskelligs…which also means I need to keep up my swim training. It’s set to be a busy year!!
I really only got into triathlon to try it out and do 1 full distance race – To be honest, I did enjoy it, but not as much as adventure racing and mountain biking.
I have around 15 races I would like to take part in this year – hopefully everything will go smoothly and I’ll have no big injuries.
As always, if you would like to try out some of these awesome sports, I’d be only too delighted to help you.
DES RYAN | 085 380 7474
