Mountain Biking Blitz coming to Laois Slieve Bloom bike trails
The new mountain biking trails in the Slieve Bloom Mountains in Laois are included in an annual national off road biking competition for the first time.
Coillte's first Laois stop on their Biking Blitz event is set to take place on April 29, at Coillte’s Baunreagh Mountain Bike Trail head near Mountrath.
The Laois trails are Round 6 of the national blitz, with categories from novices to experts on the day, with an MC, music and commentary, refreshments for sale and public toilets. Prizes will be handed out at the end of the day.
The mass start cross country mountain bike event is aimed primarily at beginners but with something for everyone.
It is now open for registration and promises an adrenaline pumping and fun day out.
There are three senior categories to choose from; Novice, Ebike or Expert, plus youth categories from under 6 to under 18.
Taking place at Coillte mountain bike trails across the country until the end of April, the 13th edition of the exciting Biking Blitz Series, organised by Biking.ie and sponsored by Coillte, promises fresh air, exercise and incredible landscapes.
Dáithi deForge is head of recreation at Coillte.
“At Coillte, we’re proud to be the largest provider of outdoor recreation in Ireland, with 13 dedicated cycling sites across the country stretching 300 kilometres-long. With family and leisure trails, as well as middle and longer distance trails for the more adventurous and advanced cyclist, there really is something for everyone.
"We’re delighted to be hosting the Biking Blitz events and showcase what we have to offer across our facilities.”
The public is invited to explore the Bike Trails on the Coillte Recreation Map and find a place you will love to go Cycling, or indulge in some other activity. Watch out for “Cyclists Welcome” signs at our designated cycling sites.
The Baunreagh trailhead is beside Monicknew forest walk, and is planned by Coillte to get a new visitors centre, including bike hire, café and toilet facilties. Read more below.
The Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails are being built across the mountains linking to Kinnitty village in Offaly, offering various levels of cycling paths. So far, they have completed a 9km difficult Red trail in Baunreagh, and a 10km moderate difficulty Blue trail in Kinnitty.
For more details or to register see Coillte's dedicated bikingblitz website.