The much‑loved Dash of the Derg charity cycle returns on Friday, 4 September 2026, starting and finishing at Flanagan’s on the Lake, Co. Tipperary.
Organised by the Irish Electrical Cycling Club (IECC), this fantastic event brings together cyclists from across Ireland’s electrical industry to raise funds in support of the Irish Electrical Benevolent Association (IEBA).
Now a highlight in the annual IEBA calendar, Dash of the Derg combines scenic cycling, camaraderie, and community spirit — all for an important cause. Participants can choose between two routes: a 116 km loop around Lough Derg or a shorter 63 km route incorporating the new bridge across the lake. Both offer breathtaking views and a great challenge for all levels of riders. Both routes will start and finish at Flanagan’s on the Lake.
Funds raised on the day go directly toward the IEBA’s work providing financial and emotional support to families and individuals within the Irish electrical industry facing difficult times.
Main Event Sponsors: The event is generously supported by Ei Electronics again this year as the main event sponsor, along with several Gold and Silver level sponsors from the industry, demonstrating widespread support for the cause.
We are pleased to confirm that the following organisations have already committed their support for the 2026 event: AP Haslam, Kellihers Electrical, Ovia / Espi / Click, National Electrical Wholesalers, Garo Electric, EWL ELectrical, City Electrical Factors, Ledburn Cables, Lidacel, CESCO, JV Tierney’s.
Organisers: The event is organised by members of the newly formed Irish Electrical Cycling Club (IECC), including Stephen McManus (Lidacel), Michael Bissett (Hager), Diarmuid McStay (REW), Andrew Clifford (JV Tierney), Paul O’Brien (Ex-EWL), and Dan Fisher (National Electrical Wholesalers Ltd & IEBA). Their dedication and efforts in organising this event highlight the commitment of the electrical industry to supporting charitable initiatives.
For entry and sponsorship details, visit eventmaster.ie or contact Dan.fisher@irisheba.ie
Together, we’re powering brighter futures for Ireland’s electrical community.
Here Are The Key details:
Who can participate?
Anyone involved in the electrical industry, including contractors, wholesalers, consultant engineers, and distributors, as well as their family and friends, are invited to participate and raise funds for the Irish Electrical Benevolent Association (IEBA).
Cost to Participate:
This year, there will only be individual entries available. Participants may choose to create their own teams.
Individuals can sign up, providing a great opportunity for colleagues and friends to come together and support the cause.
Individual Entry Cost: €100
Insurance Information:
All members of Cycling Ireland are automatically insured to participate in the event. Proof of Cycling Ireland Membership is required when registering.
A Cycling Ireland Event Licence, one-day insurance cover, is required for any non-members of Cycling Ireland to participate in the event. This is part of the registration process at a cost of €10 per person.
How To Enter:
Click here to register for the Dash of the Derg 2026
Insurance Information:
All members of Cycling Ireland are automatically insured to participate in the event. Proof of Cycling Ireland Membership is required when registering.
A Cycling Ireland Event Licence, one-day insurance cover, is required for any non-members of Cycling Ireland to participate in the event. This is part of the registration process at a cost of €10 per person.
Start / Finish Location:
The start and finish point for both the 116km & the 63km routes is at Flanagan’s On The Lake, Ballina, promising an enjoyable day of cycling amidst scenic surroundings.
Car Parking:
There are a number of car park options:
Smith O’Brien GAA & Camogie Club – Google Map
Once parked, make your way to Flanagan’s On The Lake, just a 5-minute cycle for registration and safety brief.
Carpooling is suggested to alleviate car parking for the event.
Public car parks in the town are also available.
NOTE: There is no parking available in local housing estates or on the road outside the venue.
Arrive early. There may be some delays as you leave the motorway. We will do everything in our power to keep everyone moving.
Registration Area:
Before you start the Dash of the Derg, you will need to pick up your pack at registration. It is mandatory to ‘sign-in’ on the day of the event.
Registration will be available from 8.30am at Ei Electronics Demonstration Van at the Start/Finish point of Flanagans On The Lake.
Please bring your confirmation email with QR code to pick up your race pack. If you can’t find this email our registration team will be able to assist you.
All participants will require to have their bikes checked by our on-site mechanic prior to registration. Your cooperation & patience will be appreciated.
Proof of insurance is mandatory to participate in the event.
Insurance Information:
All members of Cycling Ireland are automatically insured to participate in the event. Proof of Cycling Ireland Membership is required when registering.
A Cycling Ireland Event Licence, one-day insurance cover, is required for any non-members of Cycling Ireland to participate in the event. This is part of the registration process at a cost of €10 per person.
Click here to register for the Dash of the Derg 2026
All members of Cycling Ireland are automatically insured to participate in the event. Proof of Cycling Ireland Membership is required when registering.
63km Route:
THE 63km DASH OF THE DERG ROUTE
The route will be clearly marked by signs with arrows showing the direction of the road to follow. On the route, there will be members of An Garda Siochana , Static road, and Motorbike Marshals around the route. Your cooperation will be appreciated with all of these, as they are there for your safety.
Exit the start and go right, you will be guided by An Garda Siochana, Bike Marshals, and road marshals. Follow all instructions at the start onto the main road. Again, you will have a member of An Garda Siochana directing you right out from the start and then immediately left onto the old Main Street. You will then turn right at the mini roundabout onto the R494, please obey the Garda instructions to slow down, stop, or go..
There you will head along the R494 for approx. 1.4km . Then enter the bridge roundabout at 1.5km, turning right( third exit) and then cycling over the new Brian Boru Bypass bridge. You must then join the dedicated cycle path that runs the full length of the bridge and bypasses approximately. 4km. At the main roundabout that rejoins the R463, keep left and on towards Tuamagraney at 20km. Here you will come to a complete stop and the main junction. When clear, you will be instructed by either a member of An Garda Siochana or a road Marshal to cross the road.
This is a main junction; please be aware of traffic coming from both directions, and only cross when safe to do so.
Then keep on the R352 to Whitegate, 30km for the second water/food stop and turnaround. When refuelled, head back in the direction you came from on the R352 to Mountshannon 40km . Through Mountshannon towards Tuamgraney 46km, then you leave the R35,2 keeping left back onto the R463. Then straight back on the R463 towards Killaloe through Lisnacreeva, Ogonnelleon, Annacarriga, and Twomilegate, a flat road. Through the new roundabout of the new Killaloe Bypass. Please don’t go right again, as this will take you over the bypass again…
When through there proceed back towards the Bridge at Killaloe and turn left….please obey the lights at the bridge. Wait for the green or dismount your bike and walk across the bridge. After you cross the bridge, take the first left and into the finish area. You will receive your medal and goodie bags. Hot food and beer/soft drinks are waiting. Please use the seated areas and green area at Flannagan’s on the lake 63km ….FINISH
Again, on the route, there will be members of An Garda Siochana , Static road, and Motorbike Marshals around the route. They will direct and guide you all the way.
Your cooperation will be appreciated with all of these as they are there for your safety.
116km Route:
THE 116km DASH OF THE DERG ROUTE……
The route will be marked by signs with arrows showing the direction of road to follow. On the route there will be members of An Garda Siochana, Static road, and Motorbike Marshals around the route. Your cooperation will be appreciated with all of these, as they are there for your safety.
The start will be slightly different this year. Last year was left at the start, this year will be right, left, and left again on the R494, same main road as last year
Exit the start and go right, you will be guided by An Garda Siochana, Bike Marshals, and road marshals. Follow all instructions at the start onto the main road. Again, you will have a member of An Garda Siochana directing you right out from the start and then immediately left onto the old Main Street.Y ou will then turn left at the mini roundabout onto the R494. Please obey the Garda instructions to slow down, stop, or go. Cycle out towards Nenagh on the R494 through Ballingar 10km, Portroe 12km, Newtown and on to Hogans Pass 20km .
There you will join the main the Nenagh bypass at the Portroe Roundabout 21km you will be directed to the next roundabout at the Dromineer 22km roundabout cycle through to the Borrisokane roundabout 23.5km and then left onto the N 52. You will be clearly directed by marshals at these junctions. You will then head out the N52 turning left at the fork at ABP Food group on your right side onto the R493 towards Puckaun 31km, Coolbaun 37km to Ballinderry 45km to the first water /food stop then onto Terryglass 50km .
After Terryglass you must stop at the stop sign after this there is a sharp turn left onto the N 65 towards Portuma .You will to stop before Portumna during the event Shannon River bridge lift 58km. This normally only takes a few minutes and wont impede your journey. Travel onto the next major left onto the N65 into Portumna 60km towards R352 Ballyshrule 66km .
At 67km you will keep left on the R352 Then keep on the R352 to Whitegate 85km for the second water/food stop. Then keep on the R352 to Mountshannon 90km . Through Mountshannon towards Tuamgraney 99km you leave the R352 keeping left onto the R463 Then straight all the way back on the R463 towards Killaloe through Lisnacreeva 102km , Ogonnelleon 105km , Annacarriga 110km and Twomilegate 112km a flat road.
When through there proceed back towards the Bridge at Killaloe 116km and turn left….please obey the lights at the bridge. Wait for the green or dismount your bike and walk across the bridge. After you cross the bridge take the first left and into the finish area. You will receive you medal and goodie bags. Hot food and beer/soft drinks are waiting. Please use the seated areas and green area at Flannagan’s on the lake 116.5km ….FINISH
What to Bring:
What to bring on the morning of the event.
- Helmet (Compulsory)
- Mobile Phone
- Puncture Repair Kit (2 Spare Tubes, Tyre Levers, Pump)
- Photo ID
- Food and drink (there are water stations on the route but it is always safer to bring your own, you will need it!)
- Your email printout
Goody Bags:
After the event, your Goody Bag will be available for collection with your Event Medal at Flanagans on the Lake.
Official Start & Finish Times:
116km Event Briefing: 9:40am
116km Start: 10.00am
Groups of 6-10 participants will be allowed to leave every 3 minutes by the Marshalls.
63km Event Briefing: 10:40am
63km Start: 11.00am
Groups of 6-10 participants will be allowed to leave every 3 minutes by the Marshalls.
Cut-Off: 6:00pm
Medical Support:
First-Aid will be provided on the day by the Red Cross. If you do experience a medical emergency, phone the Medical Helpline number which is on your bike number. Give clear and precise information on the nature of the injury and where the casualty is located and give your contact number.
Insurance Requirement:
All members of Cycling Ireland are automatically insured to participate in the event. Proof of Cycling Ireland Membership is required when registering.
A Cycling Ireland Event Licence, one-day insurance cover, is required for any non-members of Cycling Ireland to participate in the event. This is part of the registration process at a cost of €10 per person.
Food:
Food
Before the Event:
Your entry to the event offers each participant a breakfast roll or pastry option and refreshments at Flanagans On The Lake.
After the Event:
Your entry to the event offers each participant a BBQ (Gluten Free Options) and refreshments at Flanagans On The Lake.
YOU WILL NEED TO HAVE YOUR TOKEN FROM THE REGISTRATION FORM TO AVAIL OF THE FOOD.
Please Note: Refreshments will also be waiting for you at the finish line.
Litter
Riders are encouraged to enjoy their surroundings without environmental impact
PLEASE BRING YOUR LITTER BACK TO THE FINISH AREA.
Water Stops:
Water Stops
As well as water being available at the start/finish area, there will be two water stations along the 116km route at the 46km and 85km points. And one water station along the 63km route at the 35km point.
Litter
Riders are encouraged to enjoy their surroundings without environmental impact
PLEASE BRING YOUR LITTER BACK TO THE FINISH AREA.
Safety Rules:
- Rules of the road apply at ALL times.
- All participants must obey the instructions of Gardai, Red Cross, and Marshals.
- Please note: Marshals do NOT have the authority to stop traffic.
- RESPECT: Respect other road users, marshals and fellow cyclists.
- Not every junction may have Marshals so you should approach junctions as if they were not there and proceed with caution.
- This event takes place on open roads and cyclists must give way to other road users where applicable.
- There are downhill sections and there may be dangerous bends, please pay attention to signs, flags and whistles.
- Strictly No iPods or Headphones – safety is a huge priority and failing to hear instructions or the sound of oncoming traffic can cause serious accidents to you, fellow participants and to the general public.
- All bicycles should be well-maintained and in a road-worthy condition.
- Helmets are complusary and no rider will be allowed on course without one.
After The Event:
After you cross the finish line (and catch your breath!), you can proceed to the clearly marked Medal Collection Area to collect your medal.
A chance to get a Team Photo
There will be refreshments for all participants.
This year there will be music and entertainment at Flanagan’s at the Lake for those who want to continue with the post-event celebrations. The Dash of the Derg organisers and sponsors will be there too.
Where To Stay:
Planning to make a weekend of it? There are some great accommodation options in and around Ballina and Killaloe, just minutes from Flanagan’s on the Lake. We’ve listed a few below to help you get started — please book directly with the property. Please note: the IECC and IEBA have no affiliation with any of the accommodation listed below. All bookings are made at your own discretion.
Hotels
The Lakeside Hotel & Leisure Centre Killaloe, Co. Clare A highly rated hotel right on the water’s edge, with leisure facilities, bar and restaurant. 📞 +353 61 376 122
Killaloe Hotel & Spa Kincora Harbour, Killaloe, Co. Clare A 4-star hotel and spa overlooking Lough Derg, offering rooms, a restaurant and spa treatments. 📞 +353 61 622 123
Abbey Court Hotel & Leisure Centre Dublin Road, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary A well-regarded hotel with leisure facilities, approximately 30 minutes from Ballina. 📞 +353 67 41111
Bed & Breakfasts
Whitethorn Lodge Shannon View, Ballina, Co. Tipperary A highly rated B&B in the heart of Ballina, just a short stroll from the start/finish area. 📞 +353 61 375 257
Lakeland House B&B Boher Road, Ballina, Co. Tipperary A well-reviewed B&B within walking distance of everything, with very friendly hosts. 📞 +353 87 638 7653
Shannon Breeze B&B Inchadrinagh, Ballina, Co. Tipperary A welcoming B&B a short distance from Ballina, with great reviews from cyclists. 📞 +353 87 280 7655
We recommend booking early as accommodation in the area fills up quickly during summer weekends. We suggest searching on Booking.com or Hotels.ie for additional options in the wider Killaloe/Ballina area.
116Km Training Plan:
Here’s a 10-week cycling training plan tailored for those aiming to complete a 116km ride, like the full Dash of the Derg. This gives you a gentler build-up, more time for adaptation, and a better chance of success with minimal risk of injury or burnout.
🚴♂️ 10-Week Beginner to Intermediate Training Plan (Target: 116km)
Format:
- Midweek Ride: Short to moderate ride for fitness, skills, and intervals.
- Weekend Long Ride: Main endurance builder.
- Optional 3rd Day: Recovery or cross-training (walking, swimming, core, yoga).
Week-by-Week Plan
Week 1
- Midweek Ride: 25km easy pace
- Weekend Ride: 35km at a comfortable, steady pace
- Optional: 45-minute walk or light spin
Week 2
- Midweek Ride: 28km, include 2 short efforts (2–3 mins faster pace)
- Weekend Ride: 45km steady
- Optional: Core session or stretching
Week 3
- Midweek Ride: 30km with small hill efforts
- Weekend Ride: 55km – include food/drink stops
- Optional: Recovery spin or swim
Week 4
- Midweek Ride: 32km with 3 x 5-minute tempo intervals
- Weekend Ride: 60km continuous ride if possible
- Optional: Light gym or stretching session
Week 5
- Midweek Ride: 35km, vary pace
- Weekend Ride: 70km, focus on pacing and nutrition
- Optional: Recovery walk or ride
Week 6
- Midweek Ride: 38km, include 2 hills
- Weekend Ride: 75km steady with limited stops
- Optional: Yoga or foam rolling
Week 7
- Midweek Ride: 35km recovery ride
- Weekend Ride: 85km with hills and realistic food intake
- Optional: Rest or light spin
Week 8
- Midweek Ride: 40km with 3 x 6-minute tempo segments
- Weekend Ride: 95km at target event pace
- Optional: Walk or swim
Week 9
- Midweek Ride: 30km easy ride
- Weekend Ride: 105km final long effort (use event kit, test food/hydration)
- Optional: Full rest day or stretching
Week 10 – Taper Week
- Midweek Ride: 20–25km gentle spin
- Weekend Ride: 116km Event!
- Optional: Light walking or stretching early in the week
✅ Key Pointers:
Rest if you feel overly fatigued—progress isn’t linear..
Eat every 30–45 minutes on long rides.
Hydrate every 10–15 minutes.
Practice with your event-day kit and equipment.
63km Training Plan:
🚴♂️ 8-Week Cycling Plan for Beginners (Goal: 63km)
Week 1
- Midweek Ride: 15km easy spin
- Weekend Ride: 20km at a slow, steady pace
- Optional Day: 30-minute walk, swim, or light stretching
Week 2
- Midweek Ride: 18km easy ride
- Weekend Ride: 25km relaxed pace
- Optional Day: 45-minute walk or light recovery spin
Week 3
- Midweek Ride: 20km steady ride
- Weekend Ride: 30km including a few gentle hills
- Optional Day: Yoga or stretching session
Week 4
- Midweek Ride: 22km with 3 short sprints (20–30 sec)
- Weekend Ride: 35km at a moderate pace
- Optional Day: Easy 10km recovery spin
Week 5
- Midweek Ride: 25km with some pace variation (e.g. 5km easy, 5km faster)
- Weekend Ride: 40km non-stop if possible
- Optional Day: Rest or a brisk 45-minute walk
Week 6
- Midweek Ride: 25km including some hill practice
- Weekend Ride: 45km steady pace with only 1 short stop
- Optional Day: 30-minute recovery ride or foam rolling
Week 7
- Midweek Ride: 20km easy ride
- Weekend Ride: 50km simulating your target event pace
- Optional Day: Rest or core/stretching session
Week 8 (Taper Week)
- Midweek Ride: 15km gentle spin
- Weekend Ride: Event week! Do a 20–25km relaxed spin midweek. Then ride your 63km event at the weekend.
- Optional Day: REST – keep fresh for the big dayur
