Ireland's Most Beautiful Triathlon: Blacksod Triathlon

The Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon is a National Series Triathlon Race that takes place on the stunning Erris Peninsula near Belmullet in Co Mayo in the west of Ireland. The Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon sponsored by Vermilion Energy takes place on 14 September 2024, with over 350 athletes from both national and international backgrounds competing. This standard distance triathlon is comprised of a 1500m swim, 40km cycle and 10km run. Offering epic views and a cracking atmosphere, this race is suited to both seasoned triathletes and have-a-go heroes who are looking for a great day out!

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The Route

The Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon course is equal parts challenging and beautiful. Every year participants rave about the incredible surroundings and the breathtaking scenery they experienced during the race. “The views really do take away your pain,” Jason Mangan the Race Director assured us.

The Swim

The swim is on a safe, sheltered course in Blacksod Bay. The only weather event that would affect the swim is a rare easterly wind. Organisers have amended and cancelled the swim in the past but this is a very rare occurrence thanks to the sheltered nature of the course. They have plenty of flexibility in Blacksod Bay to keep the swim course closer to shore if needs be, to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.

The Bike

The bike course is a straight-out and back course to Belmullet. You are almost guaranteed to set a 20km PR on either the way out or the way back, but be ready for a headwind on the other half!

The course itself is rolling, and while there are no big climbs you will have to pace yourself according to the wind direction because you still have a 10km run to conquer once you are off the bike!

The Run

The run begins with a climb for about 500m but don’t fret, it won’t last for too long. The course then crosses Falmore, a stunning area that has Ireland’s oldest church on it and offers magnificent views of Achill Island. It’s a perfect sun trap and is nicely sheltered from the wind, making it the perfect route to finish the race! The 10km will cover an enjoyable mixed medium terrain, with stretches on tarmac, sand and grass. A challenging end to a brilliant day!

A Safe Event

Safety is the utmost priority at the Blacksod Triathlon. “Making sure people feel safe is a number one priority for us race directors, especially on the swim,” Jason Mangan told us. To make the swim as safe as possible, there will be several safety boats and kayaks on the course to provide aid in the unlikely event that competitors run into difficulty. The sheltered swim course takes place in Blacksod Bay, meaning it is protected from the wind and waves that come in from the Atlantic Ocean.

As for the cycle, Jason assures us, “The road conditions are very good despite being on the west coast of Ireland. It’s a fabulous surface to bike on.” There will also be sweeper vans and a fabulous bike mechanic, both ensuring that you have a seamless bike leg of the triathlon.

Open to Everyone

Seasoned triathletes and total newbies are guaranteed to enjoy this race. Taking place in one of the wildest parts of Ireland, it’s hard to beat the scenery on all three legs of the race. The Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon is a National Triathlon Series race this year meaning the standard will be very high at the pointy end of the race. But don’t let that put you off. There’s also a great atmosphere towards the back of the pack, with competitors providing each other with plenty of words of encouragement and some good chats to distract from the task in hand.

“It’s a lovely way to end your season after spending the summer training.” Jason Mangan told us. “If you have done your preparation, The Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon is a perfect way to finish the year with a stunning race in a beautiful destination.”

Getting There

“Last year we had a competitor from Dundalk take the bus to Dublin, the train to Castlebar and cycle to the race,” Jason Mangan told us. That isn’t going to be everybody’s cup of tea before a challenging race but there are many ways of getting to Belmullet for the Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon. There are public transport links that make the journey possible without a car. You can of course take the train to Castlebar from Dublin. International competitors can fly to Knock Airport and hire a car. The most straightforward way to travel to the race is by car if that option is available to you.

Weekend Itinerary: North Mayo & Belmullet

Accommodation

There is plenty of accommodation in the area. However, Jason Mangan is encouraging people to book accommodation early as it will sell out! There’s a great buzz around this race weekend and staying close to the race centre is the best way to maximise your experience at the Blacksod Point Challenge Triathlon.

Hotels

The Broadhaven Bay Hotel is the race hub throughout the weekend making it one of the best places to stay as you’ll be in the thick of the action! It also means it’s a short stumble home after the post-race meal (and after party!) and prize giving. There are a few rooms that the organisers have earmarked for racers so act fast if you want to stay in this amazing hotel.

The Erris Coast Hotel is located a short 20-minute drive, or 17km cycle, from Belmullet town and is a perfect option for families. The Erris Coast Hotel is a stylishly refurbished 31-bedroom, family-run hotel. It is also dog-friendly so the whole family can enjoy the trip!

The Talbot Hotel is luxurious with modern amenities and stunning sea views. The Talbot Hotel also has a fantastic restaurant with plenty of choice, perfect for fuelling up that day before your race.

Western Strand Hotel is the place to stay if you are an ocean lover. Located in Belmullet’s heart, the Western Strand Hotel has close links to Wavesweeper Sea Adventures. This family-run adventure company offers activities such as surfing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and many more on and off the water.