pedElle 2025 - Day 3 update
Thurles to Dublin - 182kms | 2,178m climbing
After a huge Day 2, another 182kms and 2,178m of climbing await the pedElle riders on their third and final day. On top of the cumulative 360kms and 3,620m ascent they've done so far, it's going to be a big day in the saddle before they reaach their final destination in Dublin.
The riders head out for a 51km stage from Thurles to Castlecomer, warming up the legs. At Castlecomer, Rhian the sports injury therapist treats aches and pains, and then it's time for the second stage: a long 75kms and a hefty 878m of climbing - the longest and hilliest stage of the whole event. With a quick stop for Coca Cola and crisps (incredible energy givers for a cyclist) the riders tackle the climb in style before a long and stunning descent into lunch at Glenmalure - a renowned base for climbing in the Wicklow Mountains.
After a lot of lasagne, it's straight out and up into a climb for stage 3 - a shorter 34kms but with another 741m of ascent to contend with. As the riders climb higher, the weather sets in, with rain and wind splitting the peloton into smaller groups which pace each other up and over and through the mountains.
They regroup on the side of the road, using skankets - bicycle packing skanky blankets - to stay warm while eating doughnuts to replenish their energy reserves. Then they descend into the rain, mist and wind again before dropping below the weather for the final 22km run into Dublin.
They've made it! More than 540kms and almost 5,800m ascent in three days in all weathers - from dry and muggy to rain and wind: tough cycling conditions on what was probably the longest and most challenging pedElle to date. Throughout, the peloton has remained in high spirits, supporting each other through the tough sections and low moments, embodying the camaraderie and fellowship that characterises pedElle.
pedElle 2025 is raising funds for Coram, helping those in care or about to leave care - many of whom end up homeless without the safety net and helping hand of families or friends. You can support them here.
