CYCLE LAUNCH: Launching The Valley 70 Cycle which takes place on June 9 were: Pat Ahern (Co-Sponsor), Padraig Leane (Co-Sponsor), John Herlihy, Irene O'Keeffe (School Principal) and children from Coolick National School.

Following a successful event last year which hosted 250 cyclists from across Kerry, the Valley 70 returns with a new date and an additional short, flat route.

Launched by members of Kilcummin’s Intermediate All-Ireland Winning Team - the Valley 70 will take place on Sunday, June 9. The main route through the Gap of Dunloe is consistently voted one of Ireland’s most scenic. This year, there’s the option of doing a 30km flat route - which will suit all ages and abilities.

All cyclists start at Fossa Community Centre, which is located across the road from Fossa Church. After a pleasant 25km loop around Beaufort and Kilgobnet - the 30km participants head back to base for refreshments where the 70km cyclists take the road to Kate Kearney’s Cottage and from there go through the Gap of Dunloe into the Black Valley. From here it’s up to the Sneem Road, back to Moll’s Gap and down to Killarney - travelling along Muckross Road onto Mission Road, Port Road and back to base at Fossa Community Centre.

One hundred percent of monies raised on the Valley 70 Cycle will go to Coolick National School.

And school principal, Irene O’Keeffe, is looking forward to the event.

"This is the sixth year of our cycle,” she said. “We’ve moved the date out by two weeks, but kept it on Sunday as it suits people, and we’ve added a shorter, flat loop as well. We look forward to a great day.”

There will be over 40 stewards and road crew in attendance on the day to ensure visibility and safety in all aspects of the event. Food is available before the cycle, as well as rest and refuel stops at the top of the Gap climb and at the Sneem Road junction plus a BBQ at the finish line.

You can book your ticket online at: www.valley70.weebly.com or register in person at Fossa Community Centre on Saturday, June 8, from 7-9pm or from 7.30am on Sunday, June 9 - the day of the cycle. The cycle costs €25 per person and €15 for U16s who must be accompanied by an adult.

The roll off is at 9am sharp. All cyclists must wear a helmet. Discounts are available for adult groups and U16 groups by calling John on 086 8121029. Further details are on Facebook: @thevalley70cycle.