I started by following the handy training plan on the Ring Of Kerry Cycle website  and stayed on some carefully planned routes close to home for the first couple of weeks. I found it took some time to get my body used to sitting in the saddle and acclimatising to being in that same crouched position for hours on end.

I slowly built up my resistance with each trip and pretty soon I found myself being able to go further and further.

I'd say, if this is your forst Ring of Kerry, don’t worry about covering long distances, or incorporating big hills into your first few trips, that’ll come with time, and practice! I use the really handy free phone app called MapMyRide which calculates your distance, your calories burned, your speed and lots of other handy details.  It’s great to compare and view all the work you’ve done to date, and you can share the info with friends too.  You can also input your training goals, so it’s a good motivation tool too.

My key training tips:

1. Be consistent
2. Stay motivated
3. Have fun! 
4. Get to know your bike (Youtube is great!)

D Day

I was really worried in the run up to the day that I just wouldn't be able to cover the distance and that I'd end up dropping out but there are plenty of pitstops where you get to take a break and part of what carries you through is the sheer sense of occasion. I was glad to see the finish line alright but I made it, and without the need for emergency services!

I cannot speak highly enough of the atmosphere, the organisers, the volunteers, and the well-wishing spectators on the route the day of the event.  I think it’s really important to remember that it’s not a race, it’s not often you get the opportunity to take part in such a spectacular route with well-organised traffic restrictions, so take your time, take those well-deserved breaks, enjoy the scenery, enjoy the homemade baking, take some pictures, have the chats with the locals, have the craic and enjoy being part of this great annual occasion.

All important fundraising

Don't be afraid to ask people for money, especially if it's your first time as people tend to be more generous! - set up an online charity page, you’ll be surprised by people’s generosity -  it’s an impressive distance and a big commitment on your behalf = a perfect recipe for some good quality fundraising :)

You'll be back! 

Trust me, after you complete your first one, you won’t want it to be your last.  So get out, get training, and remember, it’s for a great cause, and you get to have great fun doing it.