Ireland in the wet!!!

A quick minibus ride down to Mizen Head first thing in the morning. We had woken to rain but it slowed right down by the time we got to Mizen it didn't seem too bad.

After unloading the bikes and putting them back together, with the first team photo, it was then time to set off. As we completed the first 25 mikes along the north of the Mizen peninsula, it actually seemed to be starting to brighten up. It was just a light drizzle.

So there was optimism as we reached Shaun for our first stop of the tour. Shaun had done us proud. Even on a Sunday morning he managed to find the normal allotment of bananas, chocolate, milk and all those other staple foods for a tour !!

Just as we reached the the van though, the heavens opened. Rain came pouring down. During a short break in it, we dashed out after eating, hoping that was all we would see, but no, very shortly it started pouring again. Virtually for the next 25 miles the heavy rain continued. A long climb and steep descent, all in the rain.

The wind over the top was really strong, almost blowing you off the bike. Fortunately everyone got to the second stop safely, but many with cold white numb fingers due to the heavy rain. It really had been a tough second section. Our American rider Gary had a special way of making sure he was seen from behind !!(Plus the flashing light facing forward on his helmet !)

Fortunately,after this second stop, the rain eased a little, turning just into light drizzle as we continued along the fantastic Ring of Kerry.

Despite the weather the scenery was often breath taking. Often shrouded in mist, but still amazing.

We had all reached our B&B by 5pm, and the hot showers were really appreciated, as was the great hospitality of the Castle LodgeGuesthouse. Hot toddies all round !

Walking into bustling Kilkenny for our evening meal and a little Guinness seemed to revive most of us,but an early night beckoned.