On Saturday May 22nd, 5 of our intrepid crew tackled an adventure race, which are growing in popularity at a rapid rate  The West Wicklow Roar Race comprised a 300 metre madcap dash to the kayaks at Blessington Lake, undertaking an arm numbing 2km kayak loop on the lake.  Returning to the shore the lads had to sprint another 300m to their bike before embarking on a gruelling, hilly 11.5k ride and tackling a 7km run, half of which was on a mountain trail with the second half along the beach.  Then hopping back in the saddle and cycle 18km (inc category 1 climb), before leaping off the bike and racing another 7km on mountain trails before the final 16.5km cycle to the finish line.  Weather conditions were in contrast to an Irish summers day, and therefore very warm and humid. 

Anyway, the first of our crazy racers to earn rest was Kevin Grogan who finished joint 17th overall in a very impressive 3:33:15.  A little further down the field 2 of our combatants fought a close friendly duel.  Ronan Hartnett and Adrian Tucker finished in 33th and 34th in 3:53:36 and 3:55:33 respectively.  Dave Gantly, whose addiction to these adventure races is increasing, was next across the line in 4:16:01 gaining 63th position.  In his first ever adventure race Mick Harkin was delighted with a top 100 finish crossing the line in 4:30:35 earning 90th overall.  The adventure races are increasing in popularity and over 50 gardai are already registered for the Gaelforce West event in Mayo next August.