Drivers in Co. Kerry urged to be aware of cyclists taking part in Cycle Sportif Ride Dingle

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the organisers of Cycle Sportif Ride Dingle have issued a joint road safety message in relation to the cycling event taking place in the Co. Kerry town on Saturday April 27 2019.

As there will be an increase in the number of cyclists on the road around Dingle over this period, both participants and road users are being urged to take extra care and to share the road safely. The Ride Dingle event, which will begin and end in Dingle town, features two cycle routes across the Slea Head loop or through the Conor Pass and there will be road closures on the day to facilitate cyclists taking part. 

Moyagh Murdock, Chief Executive Officer, RSA said: “As we approach the summer months there will be an increase in the number of cyclists on our roads. The RSA would like to remind motorists to give cyclists the space to ride safe - not only during the Ride Dingle event, but every day of the year. Drivers should allow at least one metre overtaking distance when passing cyclists in speed zones up to 50 km/h and at least 1.5 metres when passing at speeds above 50 km/h.”

Ride Dingle Organisers Elite Event Management said: “Ride Dingle offers a great opportunity for cyclists to enjoy a challenging, fun event in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. We want to ensure that everyone taking part has a great day and gets home safely. The roads will be busy and we’re asking motorists to take extra care on the road due to the extra cyclists in the area.. There will be road closures the morning of the event too, so please plan your journey if travelling in the vicinity of Dingle town and leave lots of time to reach your destination.” 

Ahead of the event, Ride Dingle organisers, Elite Event Management and RSA are advising both participants and other road users of the following:

• Check your bike for safety. Make sure it is roadworthy and is in good working order to include brakes, tyres, chain, and is equipped with lights and reflectors
• Make sure you can be seen. You should wear reflective clothing and always wear a helmet when cycling
• Obey the rules of the road and the instructions of race marshals. Never cycle more than two abreast and always cycle single-file when overtakingBe aware of drivers, other cyclists and pedestrians

Motorists are reminded to:

• Give cyclists the space to ride safe when overtaking them. (Give at least 1 metre in speed zones under 50 km/h and at least 1.5 metres in zones over 50 km/h)
• Be prepared for cyclists who may swerve out into the road due to sudden gusts of wind or uneven road surfaces
• Check mirrors regularly. Remember a cyclist could be in your blind spot, look carefully before making your manoeuvre or getting out of a parked vehicle

The RSA and Ride Dingle organisers, Elite Event Management will be supporting the ‘Ride Dingle’ message on regional radio and on social media through Facebook and Twitter.