Quest Killarney: 6 Reasons Why This Race is Totally Awesome

Are you looking to push your boundaries this summer? To get out into the great outdoors, see some awesome scenery and gain a sense of achievement you’ve never felt before? We have just the ticket.

Quest Killarney on 6 October, will offer you all of that and so much more. Giving you the opportunity to kayak, bike and run in one of the most spectacular spots in Ireland, the event caters for all levels of fitness and experience. This super-friendly race is a great day out and is always followed by a cracking after-party (remember it’s all about balance!).

If you have been toying with the idea of taking on a challenge this summer or taking your first step into the world of adventure racing then read on. We reckon Quest Killarney will tick all of your boxes and more.

1. You don’t need to be as fit as you think

If you think Quest Killarney is only for seasoned adventure racers then think again. Quest Killarney is suitable for all levels of experience. All you need is a can-do attitude and you’re guaranteed to make it to the finish line in one piece. Route options include the 27km Challenge route, 55km Sport route, 65km Dual route (no kayak!), 73km Pro route and the 83km Expert route. No matter which route you choose, you will still be guaranteed epic views, great camaraderie and a feeling like no other when you cross that finish line!

2. You will have your very own support group

Adventure racing can seem a little daunting when you are starting out. When you sign up to Quest Killarney you can choose to be added to the Rookie Facebook Group. This friendly group is all about support – there really is no such thing as a stupid question! In addition to great advice and answers to training, gear and last minute admin questions, the group will also benefit from Rookie training days prior to the race. These days are brilliant not only for your fitness but to meet fellow adventure racing newbies that might even become training partners in the lead up to the race.

quest killarney

3. You don’t need a lot of gear

If you are already a runner or a gym go-er then you probably have all the gear you will need for Quest Killarney. If you have running kit, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, basic first aid kit and a couple of snacks you will be good to go. The kayaks and buoyancy aids are included in your entry while bikes and helmets can be rented for an additional fee if you don’t have them already.

4. The views are out of this world

This epic adventure will see you kayak, cycle and run across some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes. Highlights include the Gap of Dunloe, Molls Gap, Black Valley, Ring of Kerry, Torc Waterfall, Devil’s Punchbowl, Mangerton Mountain and Muckross House as well as kayaking across the Muckross Lake in Killarney National Park.

quest killarney

5. Killarney is great craic altogether

There are few better spots for a fun-filled weekend away with mates. In addition to taking part in Quest, you can also partake in a host of other great activities and outdoor pursuits around Killarney National Park.

And let’s not forget about the nightlife. Whether it’s a sophisticated cocktail bar followed by top-notch nosh or a late-night session or a club, Killarney has it all in abundance.

6. Quest Killarney is only the beginning

Once you realise just how much fun, not to mention satisfying, adventure racing is you’ll be hooked. You’ll receive a class medal when you cross the line and continuing with their trend of awesome, useful participant tops, we hear this year’s is a hoodie – winner! Luckily Quest has plenty more great races to choose from. In 2019 you can take on Glendalough, Kenmare, Achill or even Wales. And with Quest’s great training plans and videos to work from, you might even find yourself upping the ante and opting to take on one of the longer courses.