Got a question about the 2009 Wicklow 200?

Here are the answers to some common questions we get asked. If you don't find the answer you're looking for here you may find it in the Wicklow 200 discussion forum. If you can't find an answer already there you can ask a question in the forum, or you can send your question directly to us at admin@Wicklow200.ie. You may also find the answer to your question by looking down through recent news items on our news page.

Bikes

We're entering a tandem. Do we have to pay two entry fees?

Yes. Each rider must complete an entry form and pay the entry fee.

Is a mountain bike suitable for the Wicklow 200?

While most riders use drop-handlebar road bikes, some ride mountain bikes. The principal drawback of a mountain bike on the Wicklow 200 is the extra road friction due to fat 'chunky' tyres.

Can I ride a recumbant? A penny-farthing? A unicycle?

We've had them all (except a unicycle), so yes, you can ride what you wish as long as it's legal on public roads. However, remember that you are responsible for ensuring that your cycle is safe and suitable for the event. The Wicklow 200 is a serious challenge on any cycle, so only attempt it on a cycle that you are confident and safe on.

Accommodation and travel

Can you help me find accommodation?

We don't provide an accommodation service. Look at our accommodation page for some help on finding accommodation.

Do you have any discounts for ferries from Britain?

Yes. We have arranged a discount with Stena Ferries. More details on our travel page.

Entering

How do I enter?

You have to complete an entry form and pay the entry fee in advance. You can use the online entry form and pay by credit card, or you can use the paper form and pay by cheque. Full details on our entry page.

I want to enter more than one rider. Do I have to fill in separate entry forms for each one?

Yes. You must fill in separate entry forms for each rider. You can copy or print as many copies of the form as you need.

How secure is the online credit card payment system?

We use WorldPay to handle our online credit card payments. WorldPay is a division of the Bank of Scotland, and is a world leader in secure online payment systems. On your credit card statement the transaction will be described as "WP-Irish Veteran Cyclists Association" (WP stands for WorldPay). The organisers of the Wicklow 200 do not store or even see your credit card details.

How much is the entry fee?

The entry fee is €42.00.

What do I get for the entry fee?

The fee includes use of facilities such as all-day parking, changing rooms and showers at the start/finish in UCD, light refreshments at two stops on the route, and other support services on the day. It also includes your 2009 Wicklow 200 medal and your 2009 Wicklow 200 certificate.

Is there a discount for IVCA members?

There is a reduced entry fee of €33.00 for paid-up insured members of the Irish Veteran Cyclists Association. This reduced entry fee is only available when using a paper entry form. It is not available for entries made via the online entry system.

When do entries close?

The closing date is 14th May 2009.

Can I pay the entry fee in cash?

No, we only accept payment by cheque (posted to us, with the paper entry form), or credit card (via the online entry form). Please don't send cash by post.

The Control card and pin-on number

What is the control card?

The control card is a small plastic card with your name and Wicklow 200 number on it. You must show it during the Wicklow 200 to be allowed use any of the services provided for participants.

What do I do with the pin-on number?

Pin it to the back of your jersey during the 2009 Wicklow 200, so that you can be identified on the route as a participant in the event.

When will I get my Wicklow 200 control card and pin-on number?

The control card, pin-on number and final instructions will be posted to you during the two weeks before the Wicklow 200.

What if my control card and number don't arrive before I leave home?

We will provide an emergency control card and number service at the start of the Wicklow 200 on 11th June. You should allow extra time at the start if you need to do this.

What if I lose my control card or number before the Wicklow 200?

We will provide a replacement control card and number service at the start of the Wicklow 200 on 11th June. You should allow extra time at the start to get a replacement card.

What if I forget to bring my card or number to the start of the Wicklow 200?

You can use the replacement control card and number service at the start of the Wicklow 200, but it will take you longer to go through the sign-in.

What if I lose my control card during the Wicklow 200?

Then I'm afraid you may have difficulty getting into the refreshment stops. Due to significant numbers of non-paying riders using Wicklow 200 facilities we will be imposing strict control on access this year. So look after your card very carefully. (If you find someone else's card please hand it in at the next checkpoint).

Is there a Wicklow 200 jersey this year?

No, there is no official jersey for the 2009 Wicklow 200. Participants will be identified by the official number pinned to their back.

Start/finish

Where is the start of the Wicklow 200?

The start and finish of both the Wicklow 200 and the Wicklow Challenge will be at the UCD Sports Centre, Belfield, Dublin 4. Detailed directions to the start will be published on the website and will be included in the pack posted to you in the two weeks before the event.

Vehicle entry to the UCD campus will be via the main entrance on the N11 (Stillorgan Road). The Clonskeagh Road entrance will not open to vehicles until after 7:00 a.m.

Google map of the area. Maps of UCD campus (Sports centre is marked "62").

Where and when will the sign-in be?

Sign-in will be at the start on the morning of Sunday 7th June from 6:00 a.m. onwards. Sign-in will be by scanning your control card.

What time does the Wicklow 200 start?

The Wicklow 200 and Wicklow Challenge will start at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday 7th June. The checkpoint at the start will be open from 6:00 a.m. onwards.

What is the finishing time?

The finishing checkpoint, back at UCD, will stay open until 9:00 p.m. on 7th June so you have up to 14 hours to complete the event.

Is there all-day parking at the start?

Yes, there will be all-day parking available in the grounds of UCD. The organisers of the Wicklow 200 and UCD will not accept responsibility for the safety of your car or its contents. Please ensure that you do not leave items of value in your car while it is parked there.

What facilities are available at the start/finish?

In addition to parking, the UCD Sports centre provides male and female changing rooms, showers, and toilets, and the bar and restaurant will be open for you to relax and chat on your return.

Are there lockers available at the start/finish?

No, there are no lockers or secure storage facilities available at the start/finish. If you want to leave items at the start/finish you must make your own arrangements (please don't leave valuables in a parked car all day).

Route

What is the route for the Wicklow 200 and the Wicklow Challenge?

Details of the route for the Wicklow 200 and the Wicklow Challenge are available on our route page.

Should I do the Wicklow 200 or the Wicklow Challenge?

The Wicklow 200 is a very challenging event. You should only attempt the full 200km route if you have been training for it for a number of months, and are confident that you know what you are taking on.

What if I want to change my mind after submitting my entry form?

You can change your mind, without telling us, at any time up to the moment on 11th June that you arrive at the point on the route where the Wicklow 200 and Wicklow Challenge divide. The only reason that we ask you which you intend to do is so that we can get an idea of the numbers to cater for along the route.

How will I stay on the correct road on 11th June?

The route of the Wicklow 200 and the Wicklow Challenge is marked on the road at every junction along the way. Just follow the road marks and you won't get lost. Even better, tag along with any gang of riders who seem to know where they're going!

Can I get a map of the route for my spouse/partner/friend/slave who will be driving a car?

We will provide copies of a small sketch map of the route at the start on 11th June. As this will be only a simple sketch map it should not be used to find your way around the Wicklow mountains. It should be used in conjunction with a good road map of the area (see next answer).

What road maps cover the route of the Wicklow 200?

The excellent sheet 56 and sheet 62 maps from the Ordnance Survey of Ireland provide full coverage of the Wicklow 200 route. Sheet 56 covers most of the route. Sheet 62 is needed for the most southerly part, including Rathdrum, Glenmalure, Slieve Maan, and Glen of Imaal. They can be bought online from the Ordnance Survey or from any decent bookshop or service station in Ireland. There are many other good maps that cover the same area.

What food and drink will be available along the route?

At each checkpoint each rider will get,Tea, coffee and a Sandwich. Water will also be available. There will also be water points at Laragh and at the top of Slieve Maan.

Note: This may not be enough food by itself to complete the Wicklow 200! See below for further advice.

What food and drink should I bring with me?

The food provided at the checkpoints in Rathdrum and Donard may not by itself be sufficient to complete the event. You must make your own arrangements to have enough food for the day's riding.

You should bring plenty of water, and food such as energy bars, sandwiches, fruit cake or other suitable snacks. You should drink plenty of water (particularly if it's a warm day) so two large bidons, refilled at each checkpoint and water stop, are best. Avoid fizzy drinks. Bring whatever snacks you are used to. The Wicklow 200 is not the best place to experiment with new food items. There are shops along the route at Enniskerry, Roundwood, Laragh, Hollywood, Donard, Baltinglass, and Rathdrum, but remember that they may not be open until late in the day.

What do I do if I have a mechanical or medical emergency along the route?

There will be a Wicklow 200 emergency phone number printed on your control card. Ring that number if you need help. If we can we will try to get someone to assist you. However, you are expected to be able to deal with routine problems, such as punctures, yourself. Please remember that the Wicklow 200 is spread over a very large area so it may be some time before help can arrive, particularly if our teams are helping someone else when you call.

Other

Are there any prizes?

There are no prizes except your own sense of achievement. Every rider will get a medal and a personalised certificate stating that they have completed the Wicklow 200 or Wicklow Challenge. Your medal and certificate will be handed to you as soon as you check in at the finish.

Who organises the Wicklow 200?

The Wicklow 200 has been organised every year since 1982 by the Irish Veteran Cyclists Association.

My spouse/partner/family/friend will be with me but won't be riding. Can they give a hand at the start?

Of course. We're always looking for people to help for a couple of hours at the start. Just contact admin@Wicklow200.ie.

Have you any other tips for riding the Wicklow 200?

Yes, please ride safely and with care. The Wicklow 200 is not a race. You must obey the rules of the road, and you must show consideration for other cyclists and other road users. Every year there are some accidents, usually caused by careless or thoughtless riding, and frequently on downhill sections of the route. Please take care, and encourage riders around you to do so too.