Day 1 —Derry to Loche Nacung

154.92 mi, 3548m
Started great. Ended the day with heat exhaustion, vomiting and shivers! Went too hard. Nearly scratched. Understanding energy management and pacing for multi-day events could have prevented this crisis.

Everything was going great until it wasn’t! Overheated today so was sweating loads and got dehydrated which stopped me being able to eat. It concluded with me seeing the contents of what little was in my stomach. Queue internet search to find accommodation so the day was cut short of my distance target but needs must.

Day 2— Loche Nacung to Sligo

121.19 mi, 2524m
Dropped HR effort but still not able to tolerate food. Again nearly scratched.

Managed to get some rest overnight and before leaving the B&B. Had a good breakfast. However, nausea return so haven’t been able to eat very well today. Proper hydration and nutrition protocols are critical for multi-day recovery. It’s been super hot here and I’ve had problems with the heat before.

Day 3— Sligo to Kylemore Lough

207.4 mi, 2461m
Back eating and able to cruise nicely at around 130 bpm.

Over night I was expecting to scratch in the morning but woke up feeling much better so was able to push on and cover some distance to get back on track. Mental strategies for pushing through dark moments and staying present saved this race.

Day 4— Kylemore Lough to Killimer

215.86 mi, 2556m
Still feel good! Eating properly.

Big day out to push onto the ferry crossing. No chance of getting the last ferry at 19:00. Ended up camping nearby to roll over to get the first ferry in the morning at 07:00.

Day 5— Killimer to Lauragh

171.13 mi, 2442m
Fatigue kicking in on hillier parcour.

Day started with a ferry crossing that opened at 07:00 so there were a few other riders there too.

Day 6— Lauragh to Kinsale

165.12 mi, 2886m
Long slog with end in sight.

All done! Officially finished in fifth place on the Setanta route (1030 mi) in 5d 15h 45m

Totals

Distance: 1036.62 mi
Ascent: 16396m
Elapsed time: 5d 15h 47m