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Boasting a less challenging route, a more convenient base in Fossa, a move to Sunday and no change to the ticket price, the upcoming Valley 70 Cycle on Sunday, May 20 has the makings of a great day out.

Launched this week by Kerry senior star David Clifford and recently voted one of the top five most scenic cycle routes in Ireland, the Valley 70 Cycle starts at Fossa Community Centre, across the road from Fossa Church. After a short, flat warm-up around Beaufort and Kilgobnet, you’ll take the road to Kate Kearney’s Cottage and from there go through the Gap of Dunloe and freewheel down 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.

100% of monies raised on the Valley 70 Cycle will go to Coolick National School. Principal Irene O’Keeffe is looking forward to the event. “There are lots of changes this year,” she said. “There’s a lovely new route, convenient start and finish base and as it’s on a Sunday so it probably suits people a bit more. All we need now is the weather.”

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. There are rest and refuel stops at the top of the Gap climb and at the Sneem Road junction as well as the now famous 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, May 19 from 7-9pm or from 7.30am on Sunday, May 20 (the day of the cycle). The cycle costs €20 per person and the roll off is at 9am sharp. All cyclists must be aged 16 or over to participate and must wear a helmet. Further details are on Facebook @thevalley70cycle. Contact Cycle Committee Chair Ger Teahan on 087 3528411 for more info.