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Cycling

On your bike! We've picked out 4 cycling events you should try this Autumn

4 provinces, 4 cycling sportives.

SUMMER IS DRAWING to a close but that doesn’t mark the end of the outdoor activities. We’ve compiled a list of cycling events in each of the four provinces for you to have a go at this Autumn.

General view of the lead riders as they pass over the Hill of Allen Get out on your bike this September. Tommy Grealy / INPHO Tommy Grealy / INPHO / INPHO

Connacht:

What: Yeats 200 sportive
When: Sunday 6 September
Where: Sligo. Manorhamilton, to be precise.
Why: Definitely not the fact it’s actually 210 kilometres and not 200 but it’ll still attract hundreds of riders. The dramatic scenery and the fact it contains over 2,000 metres of climbing make it one of the most demanding sportives on the calendar.

Just as well Sligo aren’t in the All-Ireland hurling final because if you’re back by throw-in you’ll be doing well. For more information, follow this link.

Ulster:

What: Giants Causeway Sportive
When: Sunday 12 September
Where: Ballycastle, Co. Antrim
Why: If it was good enough for the riders of the Giro d’Italia last year it’s good enough for anyone, any time.

The coast road of the north Antrim is one of the finest sections of road you can ride a bike anywhere. Period. Just pray for no rain. All the details are available here.

2015 An Post Rás - Stage 8 - Sunday 24th May There are so many great events taking place all over the country. Paul Mohan / SPORTSFILE Paul Mohan / SPORTSFILE / SPORTSFILE

Munster:

What: An Post Series Rebel Tour
When: Saturday 12 September
Where: Glengarriff, Co. Cork
Why: The villages of Eyeries and Allihies are incredibly pretty while the ascent of the Healy Pass from the Kenmare side is arguably the most picturesque in the country. You’ll climb it twice so definitely not for the feint-hearted. If you fancy the challenge, click here.

Leinster:

What: Great Dublin Bike Ride
When: Sunday 13 September
Where: Smithfield, Dublin
Why: Organisers are expecting upwards of 5,000 riders to turn out on the day for what is the flagship event in Ireland for the European week of sport. There are 2 routes (60km and 100km) and both are very manageable for anyone with even the most level of fitness. All the details can be found here.

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All the best pictures as athletes brave the elements to complete Dublin City Triathlon