First of all, well done! Taking on the 170km Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is an incredible achievement, and doing it for charity makes it even more special. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll have an unforgettable day on the bike. This guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy every kilometre.
The Week Before the Event – Preparation is Key
A successful day starts well in advance:
Bike & Equipment Check
Ensure your bike is fully serviced and in good working order
Check:
- Brakes (responsive and not worn)
- Gears (smooth shifting)
- Tyres (good tread, no cuts, correct pressure)
- Chain (clean and lubricated)
Bring your bike for a tune-up if needed—don’t leave it until the last minute!
Essential Supplies to Prepare
- Helmet (mandatory)
- Gloves & sunglasses
- Lights (front & rear, even in daylight for visibility)
- Repair kit:
- Spare tubes (x2)
- Tyre levers
- Mini pump or CO₂ inflator
- Multi-tool
- Fully checked cycling shoes & pedals
Confidence in your equipment = peace of mind on the road.
The Day Before the Cycle
This is all about organisation, fuelling, and rest. Lay Everything Out.
Have all your gear ready:
- Cycling kit (jersey, bib shorts, socks)
- Jacket or gilet (weather dependent)
- Helmet, gloves, glasses
- Nutrition for the ride
- Filled bottles & energy mix ready to go
- Number/registration items (if provided)
- Nutrition – Fuel the Tank
Focus on low fibre, high carbohydrate foods:
- Large portions of rice or pasta
- White bread, potatoes, or similar
- Avoid heavy, greasy, or unfamiliar foods
This helps maximise your glycogen stores, which your body will rely on during the long ride.
Hydrate Well
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Avoid excessive alcohol
Rest & Recovery
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Stay relaxed—your preparation is done!
The Morning of the Cycle
Stay Calm & Relaxed
Give yourself plenty of time
Avoid rushing—this is your day to enjoy
Breakfast Strategy
2–3 hours before start:
- Large bowl of porridge with honey
1–2 hours before start:
- Sugary cereal (e.g. Coco Pops, generous portion)
Just before the start:
- Banana (excellent quick energy boost)
Fuel & Hydration During the Cycle
Hydration & Energy Mix
- Hydration & Energy Mix
- Use a carbohydrate/electrolyte mix (available in O Sullivan’s Cycles, Killarney)
- Carry 2 x 750ml bottles
This provides both energy and electrolytes efficiently.
Additional Fuel Options
Bring a variety of easy-to-eat snacks:
- Energy gels
- Rice Krispie bars
- Bananas
- Oat bars
- And yes… Haribo are very welcome!
Vital Tips for a Brilliant Day
Pace Yourself
- Keep a steady, sustainable pace
- Resist the urge to go hard at the start
- Don’t chase riders who are at a different level
- Approach Hills Smartly
- Don’t attack hills
- Settle into a comfortable rhythm
- Relax, breathe, and keep spinning
Eat & Drink Regularly
- Drink every 10 minutes
- Eat every 30–45 minutes
If you stay on top of nutrition, you’ll feel the difference later in the day!
Ride Together
- Join a group with a similar pace
- Share the workload and enjoy the camaraderie
- Chatting and teamwork make the day more enjoyable and help the kilometres fly by
The Finish Line Feeling
Take time to enjoy the achievement—you’ve just cycled 170km! Celebrate the effort and the cause you’ve supported. Most importantly, take real satisfaction in knowing that every pedal stroke helped raise funds for a great cause—making your achievement all the more meaningful.
Ensure you rehydrate, stretch, and eat something substantial
The Day After the Cycle
Recovery
- Expect some tired legs—that’s normal!
- Light activity (walking or a gentle spin) helps recovery
Nutrition & Hydration
- Continue to drink fluids
- Eat balanced meals with carbs and protein to aid muscle repair
Reflect and Be Proud
- You’ve completed an incredible challenge
- Take pride in your contribution to charity – and start thinking about next year!
Final Word
The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is not just about the distance – it’s about the experience, the atmosphere, and the shared journey. Stay fuelled, stay steady, and most importantly…Enjoy every moment on the bike. You’ve got this!
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