Plenty of events lined up for the Giro’s arrival in Dundalk

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few weeks, you’ll be well aware that the Giro d’Italia comes to Ireland today, with a visit to Dundalk pencilled in for Sunday.

Dundalk is a designated stop for the official Giro Carnival Cars which will descend on the town approximately 60-90 minutes before the race and reward the awaiting crowds by handing out free goodies.

You can keep up to date on all the cycling action live on the Big Screen at the Market Square.

Meanwhile, Sinéad from Dundalk Tourist Office has sent in the following details of various other events taking place to mark the race’s arrival on Sunday:

• The party will get underway Sunday at the Market Square from 11.30am, with the approximate arrival time of cyclists into Dundalk between 1.30pm and 1.50pm.
• There will be a cycling time trial competition on the Market Square hosted by Halfords Dundalk who are sponsoring a top of the range bike worth €800.
• Keep an eye out for the stilt walking, unicycling street performers who will entertain the crowds as they await the race and there will be lots of fun for younger cycling enthusiasts, including free face painters who will be joining in the carnival atmosphere.
• Many local businesses will be celebrating inside and outside their premises in town and along the Giro route so remember the 3 P’s…

1. Pick your viewing point in advance
2. Plan how to get there – how far away you will need to park etc. (official road safety closures from 12 noon)
3. Pink apparel, plenty of photos and enjoy the party!!

Dundalk encouraged to embrace Giro fever this week

Excitement is building with the Giro d’Italia only days away and Dundalk has definitely proved it is embracing this world famous race by turning pink in recent weeks.

According to Jennifer Woods in Dundalk BIDS office in the Market Square, the event is a real chance for Dundalk to showcase itself to the world.

“The sporting event of the decade is due to pass through town on Sunday and the people of Dundalk are committed to showcasing our town in the best possible way to the world’s media,” she said.

“With a global television audience of 775 million people, all eyes will be on us and it’s fantastic to see businesses all over town have welcomed the race by painting and decorating their premises in the Giro’s signature pink colour.

“Dundalk is a designated stop for the Giro caravan carnival which will prelude the race and entertain the crowds including handing out free goodies. Other exciting events which will take place on the day include a cycling time trial competition on the Market Square hosted by Halfords Dundalk who are sponsoring a top of the range bike worth €800.

“Keep an eye out for the street performers who will entertain the crowds as they await the race, and there will be lots of fun for younger cycling enthusiasts, including free face painters who will be joining in the carnival atmosphere.

“Everybody who is coming out to see the Giro cyclists are encouraged to do so as early as possible on the day to get the best viewing point, wear pink and bring town, club and county flags to ensure Dundalk is awash with colour. Many of the businesses across Dundalk are opening especially to join the celebrations. Details on road closures can be found on Louth County Council’s website.

“In recognition of the commitment of the local people getting into the Giro spirit, Dundalk Town Council have announced free parking in Dundalk on Saturday.

“Sinead Roche and Fiona Cunningham of Dundalk BIDs and the Tourist Office would like to thank the hundreds of people who have got in-touch and got involved in ‘Giro d’Dundalk’. Your enthusiasm, commitment and creativity will help put Dundalk on the map for similar opportunities in the future,” said Jennifer.