Start: Larne, Co. Antrim

Date: 9th March 2024

Organiser: Andrew Beattie

E-Mail: andrew.beattie1@sky.com

All entries must be made on Eventmaster.

Eventmaster Link: https://eventmaster.ie/event/rkYEIPmS9y

Ride with GPS Map : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/44965310

Route Info

The inaugural Larne Round the Lough (5 counties) 200 Audax starts at Larne Chaine Park car park, 107 Glenarm Rd, Larne, Co. Antrim BT40 1DY.

It takes us west to the top of Lough Neagh (biggest Lough in Ireland and UK) where the first control is at Toome 60k, the site of the largest wild eel fishery in Europe. Heading south now around the Lough to the Maghery foot bridge at 95k. Then into Portadown 2nd control 112k (only place to cross Upper River Bann). Heading north now through Crumlin and back to Larne (hopefully a tailwind), dropping back through Ballygalley, 3rd control 198k (you may see the polar bear) to join the Antrim Coast Road for the last 6k into Larne. Total 204k.

Not only will you have gone round the largest Lough in Ireland and the UK but also gone through 5 counties on the way. With approx. 1600m of climbing it is not too hilly for an Audax.

This is a self-supported event but passing plenty of towns/shops on the way for food. Due to time of year lights/ reflective will be necessary. Sunrise 07:50, sunset 18:30.

For junk food lovers there is a McDonalds 500m from start.

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