Earlier this year, as a Club we announced our intentions for a venture to Rathlin Island, with the aim of raising money for a most worthy cause, whilst at the same time providing a challenge and opportunity, for members to get together in a social atmosphere and environment.  For some time now, planning by the Committee has gone on in the background and in particular is largely down to the imagination and creativity of committee members, Davey Cartmill and Dean McDowell.  Their goal on our behalf, was to organise, co-ordinate and run an event, which embodied an element of challenge and enjoyment, whilst offering something a little different to the normal.

With the L’Etape Rathlin event almost upon us and everything now more or less in place, we have now included an outline Itinerary for the weekend and would invite anyone in the area’s to give us a wave and say hello. Our routes to and from Rathlin, will provide many challenges over the scenic rolling, open and coastal roads, that lace the route. A ferry crossing ending day ones journey and starting day two’s will make for some interesting facial expressions no doubt. Routes can be viewed at the following links Day One https://www.strava.com/routes/5652863 Day Two https://www.strava.com/routes/5689186

Our chosen charity for this event and for the IVEAGH 50 Sportive a little later in the year, is the Cancer Fund for Children (Donations large or small are very welcome and can be made before, during or after either event). To find out more about the services offered by the Cancer Fund for Children visit http://bit.ly/HowWeHelp2)

Participants please note, that several vehicles will travel independently and not as direct support vehicles. All participants must ride in a self- sufficient capacity. Spare tyres, chain links/breakers, first aid kit to be appointed.

Day One

0730 Meet at Scarva. Exchange hand luggage, please note parking sensitivity area.    (Change of clothes, Wash kit, Towel etc)

0800 Depart (all times here on in are approximate & estimated with a 16mph Average)

1015 – 1100 Antrim Stop (35 miles) Soup/Sandwich

1330 – 1415 Carnlough Stop (72 miles) Tea/Coffee/Bun

1600 Ballycastle Arrival (99 miles)

1630 Ferry to Rathlin, (on foot with hand luggage and bicycle).

Accommodation – Youth Hostel Rathlin (4 per room), facilities include Washing Machine, Showers.

1845 – Onwards McCuaig’s Restaurant /Bar. (Live entertainment)

Day Two

0700 Breakfast (Continental) at Hostel

0830 Ferry to Ballycastle

0915 Depart (all times here on in are approximate & estimated with a 16mph Average)

1045 – 1130 Portstewart Stop (24 miles) Coffee/Bun

1330 – 1415 Castledawson Stop (57 miles) Tea/Coffee/Bun

1700 Scarva Arrival (99 miles)