By Paul Sheen
Date: 21 June 2025
It’s a little before 4:45am on Saturday 21st June. I’m standing in the Titanic Quarter in Belfast as the first rays of sunlight stretch across the sky. Alongside me are 200 fellow Chase The Sun challengers, each carrying their own hopes, dreams, and fears.
The mission? Simple in words, immense in reality: ride 340km from one side of Ireland to the other, Belfast to Enniscrone, before the sun sets. Over 3,000m of climbing, a patchwork of roads, and just 17.5 hours to get it done.
Early Calm, Big Goals
Last night, during check-in, I scribbled one word on the event board: Tranquilo—calm, composed, ready. I’ve ridden both the North and South routes in previous years. I know what lies ahead. I love the physical and mental challenge, but just as much, I look forward to the scenery, the wildlife, the changing light, the connection to the land.
And quietly, I’ve set myself another goal: to be the first rider into Enniscrone this afternoon.
Out of the City and Into the Flow
The first 40km to Larne pass quickly, urban roads give way to countryside, and the early morning chill keeps everything feeling fresh. There’s little traffic, and I soak up the peace of the ride.
After Larne, we hit one of the most beautiful stretches of road I’ve ever ridden. Cliffs to the left, the calm sea to the right, and a pastel sky above. Smooth tarmac, flat terrain, it’s cycling nirvana.
Climbing Begins – And a Red Squirrel Sighting
At around 60km, we turn inland and begin the first climb of the day. As I climb towards Glenarm, I spot a red squirrel perched on a stone wall, basking in the early sun. A rare sight, and a magical moment.
The climb is kind, the descent fast and flowing. Soon I'm cruising into Ballymena, the biggest town we'll see for the rest of the ride. Briefly urban again, then back into quiet country roads.
The Sperrin Mountains and the Tarmac Rollercoaster
Rolling hills stretch ahead like a giant tarmac rollercoaster. Up, down, up, down, surely they could have built a flat road here?
Then come the Sperrins, beautiful, open, green. The gradients bite just enough to test the legs. At Barnes Gap, the road becomes a gravel track. Careful navigation takes us to the top before a fast descent into Gortin and the halfway checkpoint.
Drinks topped up, a few VOOM bars pocketed, and I'm back on the move, feeling calm, strong, and fully in control.
Into the Lakes and A Momentary Dip
The scenery shifts again. We pass lakes bordered by mountains—flat roads and a moment to breathe. I relax a little too much and realise I’ve not been drinking enough. A wave of lightheadedness hits. Thankfully, a garage appears like a mirage. Bottles refilled, mind reset, I roll on toward the final challenge.
The Last Climb, a Puncture, and the Final Push
The final climb of the day isn't steep, but the earlier fluency is gone. Still, I grind my way to the top, knowing the coast is close.
Then, disaster, BANG. A puncture. Of all the times... But I stay calm. It's not as bad as feared and soon I'm rolling again.
10km. 5km. 1km.
A final descent into Enniscrone, the sea finally in view, the finish line ahead.
Victory, Reflections, and What's Next
Just like that, done. 340km coast-to-coast in one day. I’m absolutely spent, legs empty, but filled with pride. And yes, I’m the first rider home.
My brother (and loyal support crew) arrives, and we debrief over a well-earned rest. One by one, other riders begin to arrive, each with their own epic tale. For some, it’ll be one and done. Others are already plotting their return. As for me, I’ve got my eyes set on June 20, 2026, Chase The Sun Italy in Cesenatico. The final stamp in my CTS passport.
Why You Should Chase the Sun
Chase The Sun is one of the friendliest and most uplifting events I’ve taken part in. Ordinary people achieving extraordinary things. Quiet roads, unforgettable scenery, and a sense of shared purpose that binds everyone together.
My favourite moment? On the North route, a barn owl flew alongside me for a minute or so, just one rider, one bike, and one bird in perfect harmony.
If you're up for the challenge, I can’t recommend it enough. See you on the start line in 2026?
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