o coincide with the opening of the new M3 motorway in 2010, the Aisling Group International, is running one of the most unique cycling events to happen in Ireland. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for cyclists to have a chance to cycle on a closed motorway. The aim is to create a fun and exciting event which participants of all levels and all ages can take part.
With Eurolink M3 and its partners SIAC and Ferrovial-Agroman, agreeing to make the M3 Motorway available for the event, pedal power will be the first means of transport for people to experience the sights of the new development. This will be a fantastic opportunity for people to travel at a pace slightly slower than the 120kmh usually associated with motorways and get a true appreciation of the work undertaken to create this magnificent structure.
The M3 cycle has three distances with all three events starting at the South Toll Plaza, Dunboyne. The route for all distances is straight out on one side before moving over to the opposite side and travelling back.
The shorter of the three cycles is the Fun for All Cycle which is 14kms long and suitable for anyone over the age of 10 years. Starting Time: 10.30am
For those who wish to challenge themselves a little more the Boyne Cycle is 55kms and participants must be over 14 years old. Starting Time: 10.15am
Serious cycling enthusiasts can cycle the Paul Healion 100km course which will go the full length of the motorway before returning on the opposite side and returning to the Toll Plaza. Starting Time 10am
All three events will have lead cars, follow cars, mechanical support and refreshments.
The M3 Cycle is supported byNavan Road Club, with Race Director of the Race Around Ireland, Alan Heary assisting in organising the event and PJ Nolan former President Cycling Ireland.
"County Club Bar/Restaurant. Good choice of food, lunch, teas/coffee.
Map of the area re. Follow N3 from Dublin going North (Navan/Cavan Road) The County Club is South of Dunshaughlin on the right hand side opposite a small school.
Going South on the Navan/Dublin Road pass through Dunshaughlin village travel on and it is on the left hand side opposite a small school.
There will be signs up regarding SIGN ON area.
Frequently Asked Questions:
FAQ:
How do I know what the format for the day of the event?
An information pack will be sent to you during the week beginning 2nd May. It will include the relevant data.
Will we get a chance to cycle on the motorway before the event?
No. The M3Cycle will take place on the 16th May. Outside of that event time the motorway is under construction and completely out of bounds except to those allowed to access it with the permission of the companies involved. These companies have kindly given permission for the cycle to take place on the 16th and we ask people to abide by their restrictions & health and safety regulations for their safety and that of others at all times.
If people wish to train for the event there are many cycling clubs we suggest you contact who can give advice and information on how best to proceed.
Navan Cycling club has a leisure spin on Sundays starting at 10.30a.m. from Teach Na Teamhrach (Old Balreask Restaurant/Bar) Trim Rd., Navan. From the 6th May there will be a leisure spin in the evening every Thursday where you can get advice. Spin starts 7.30p.m.
Alternatively you may contact these offices where we will do our best to help with any query you may have.
Where is the start?
Cycle starts at Black Bull Toll Plaza (Fairyhouse Cross area) continues up right side of motorway and turns to return to Toll Plaza for each of the routes. The 100km starts at 10a.m., 55km at 10.15a.m. and the 14km at 10.30.
If I register for the 55km and then decide to do the 100km can I do that? Yes but you must decide before the start as the 100km starts before the 55km and each group is accompanied by a lead car and a broom car behind. These will accompany the groups in each section.
Will I have a number? Yes each registered person will have a number. The numbers will be colour coded to distinguish which distance you are participating in. All participants will be grouped at the start according to their registration as there are 15 minute intervals between each group start.
Where do I get my number? You will need to sign on and collect your number in the following ways:
At Aisling Group International Offices, CYWS, Fairgreen, Navan during the week prior to the event or
At the 'Vortex' Nightclub, County Club, Dublin side of Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath on Saturday evening 15th May 6p.m. til 8p.m. or
16th May 7a.m. til 9.30a.m. at the 'Vortex' Nightclub. There is limited parking at this venue and people are asked to park at the back on the right side when signing on and collecting their number.
Parking: Parking is available on the motorway South of the Toll Plaza. The motorway may be entered off the Dunboyne roundabout Dublin side of the Fairyhouse Road only.
You must display your Entry Number or Registration Acceptance Document in the front of your car to gain entry. Marshals and parking attendants will be on hand to assist.
As this is a busy junction we ask everyone to have their required number or registration document at hand in order to support the free flow of traffic along all routes.
Can people join on at Kells area or other points along the way? No.
Everyone must start at the Toll Plaza and return to it. All entries onto the motorway will be manned by security personnel/marshals. Only those who have registered will be allowed to participate.
What if I get a puncture or can't continue? There will be a mechanic traveling on the route from Navan Cycle Centre who will assist. There will also be a broom car behind each group to cater for any other situations.
Who can take part: From 10 years up. Whilst there are elite cyclists taking part they will go at their own pace in front. It is suitable for all other cyclists. This includes families and average cyclists. The 14km is rated as a fun cycle for all. The 50km Boyne Cycle is a bit more challenging.
Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes, Helmets must be worn during the cycle otherwise you will not be allowed in the event.
Cycles must be roadworthy and different types are allowed e.g. racing, mountain, tandem etc.
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